Summary

Lyman feels his days at the cottage with his grandmother’s letters are coming to an end. Shelly comes to him and shows him a slip of paper. It is a manifesto for a commune society her husband has given her. She is considering joining. Lyman does not see it as the solution to society. The people see society as corrupt and greedy, but isolating themselves from society will not change it.

Analysis

Shelly wants Lyman’s approval of the commune. She respects his opinion. Shelly’s husband is very charming and convinces her the communal life is for them, but she has grown to respect her employer and values his opinions more. Shelly has matured working for Lyman and sees she must think for herself and decide what is important to her.

Vocabulary

rictus, dubious, promiscuity, anarchy, harangue, geodesic