Chapter 17 Summary

Pei found that times were changing. With the country on the brink of war, tensions were high. Traveling even within the city became difficult. There were military checkpoints everywhere. Pei continued to write home to her family and seek information about Li. Lin also spent time writing to her family, but with a different purpose. Lin was trying to secure passage for her and Pei to Canton. During this time, Pei received word that her mother had passed away in her sleep. Pei felt great sorrow for the loss of a mother, who she was only just beginning to know.

Chung finally announced his plans to close the factory. There were only a few remaining employees, including Pei and Lin. Chen Ling and Lin were placed in charge of tying up loose ends. It was their responsibility to close the business books for...