Chapter 8 Summary

Scarlett arrives to an Atlanta that has been ravaged by rain the evening before. Uncle Peter, Aunt Pittypat's butler, carries Scarlett to the carriage so she can avoid getting muddy. Uncle Peter apologizes for Pittypat not meeting her at the station, but her weak disposition would not allow her to travel through the mud. The butler also tells Scarlett to watch out for her baby's nurse, as Prissy is too young and barely able to carry Wade.

On their way to the Hamilton house, they are greeted by a number of families. Mrs. Merriweather, Mrs. Elsing, and Mrs. Whiting argue over having Scarlett help with their hospital versus Mrs. Mead's. These are the most powerful women in Atlanta society. Scarlett is polite and charming, but she also very excited about the hustle and bustle atmosphere around her. Scarlett notices a very red-haired woman...