Summary

“The Mouse in the Milk – 1930”

Right before their second trip, it occurs to Joey and Mary Alice that this is to be an annual event. They go, feeling like they have no choice. Mary Alice brings a jump rope, Joey a huge jigsaw puzzle. One night, soon after they arrive, they hear a horse clop past, then stop. Suddenly there is a huge explosion and Grandma’s mailbox bounces off the roof of the house.

The next morning, Effie Wilcox comes by. She is a nervous wreck and asks to use Grandma’s privy. The night before, someone had come to her house and flung her privy across the yard. Effie feels like the town is getting too dangerous. “Cowgills” is how Grandma explains both incidences.

The next morning the kids come downstairs to find Grandma’s Winchester Model 21 laying out on the table along with...