Summary

In Chapter 1, Cora is working with her friend Viola to deliver books to the local library in Wichita, Kansas. A late spring storm leaves the two of them stuck in Cora’s car, where they talk. Viola talks about a woman named Myra Brooks, who participated with them in many suffrage events. Viola says Myra is seeking someone to chaperone her daughter, 15-year-old Louise, to New York City over the summer. Viola is annoyed with this proposal, but Cora is intrigued.

Viola goes on to complain about current fashions. She feels that short haircuts on women are unbecoming, and rising hemlines are immodest. Cora thinks she might cut her hair if she was younger, but agrees that skirts showing one’s knees are not proper. Viola notes her interest in joining the Klu Klux Klan after they recently came and spoke...