Chapter 4 Summary

Adam tries to get out of his obligation of picking up Flora by feigning an attack, but is out-staged by Meriam, the hired girl, who goes into labor with her fourth illegitimate child. With no choice left, Adam does his practice runs in the buggy, led by the gelding, Viper, to and from the train station before his last journey to pick up Flora. His thoughts are consumed by Elfine and a man he surmises she is spending time with named Richard Hawk-Monitor. Adam is so consumed with his own thoughts that he doesn't notice Flora climb into the buggy until she is throwing out the straw bed. He argues with her to leave it alone, but Flora has her way. In virtual silence, they drive back to Comfort Farm. Flora feels a sense of dread as she clutches her overnight bag, her...