Section 4 Summary

The next morning is unlike the other mornings the travelers have spent at the inn, for the coach is ready and waiting outside. As the driver is making final preparations for the next leg of the journey, the passengers busy themselves with stocking the carriage with provisions. Finally, Boule de Suif arrives, looking embarrassed and flustered. As she approaches the group they refuse to look at her, much less speak to her. Boule de Suif walks up to one of the women to greet her hello, but is only rewarded with a stiff nod. The group quickly gets into the coach, each sitting in the same place as before. No one speaks to Boule de Suif; however, Madame Loiseau exclaims her relief out loud that she does not have to sit next to her.

The journey begins in silence until the married women...