Walt Catches Cold Summary

Garp's protective instincts are on alert because Walt has a cold, which makes his breathing a little difficult. Helen wishes that Garp would begin to write again so that ordinary issues like colds and stuffy noses could be put into proper perspective. Garp's lack of writing leaves his imagination open for dreams, which these days consist of horrible things happening to Duncan and Walt.

Garp's focus on the children and lack of attention for Helen is the impetus for Helen to initiate an affair with Michael Milton. Helen lays the specific ground rules for the liaison including the fact that Michael must get a car because she will never let Michael ride in the Volvo. Michael buys an old station wagon with wood panels on the side and a wide front seat, just perfect for Helen to lie down...