Chapter 11 Summary

Julie's plans to stay with Aunt Cordelia during her college years are thwarted when, one day, Aunt Cordelia suggests that Julie attend the state university instead of the college in town so that she may experience some of the world. At first, Julie's reaction is one of fear and instability, but ultimately, she understands that Aunt Cordelia has her best interests at heart. Aunt Cordelia wants both Julie and Danny to experience the world before they marry, and Julie hesitantly agrees. Aunt Cordelia wants Julie and Danny to prove their love for each other, and she is concerned that Julie is taking on her own characteristic of inflexibility. She does not want that trait to rule Julie's life, as it has driven her own.

Julie is named valedictorian of her graduating class, and the whole family makes plans to come home to attend...