Summary

In Chapter 40, Valora is “shocked to hear the sounds of people singing and the tinkling of piano keys” (332). A preacher shouts about the need to be saved, because “Our Heavenly Father welcomes even the newest convert” (332). Jamie and Valora see Bledig and his friends, and one of the men is bawling. She again notices the gate, locked in an effort to keep third-class passengers out, and she wonders if there will be a similar line in heaven. She is grateful the Chinese heaven is regulated by stars. They arrive as the final lifeboat is being lowered. A crewman says no one else is allowed on, but Valora is determined. She is no longer willing to be polite. She will “be as pushy and streetwise as the gangs in Cheapside, who'll beg, barter, or beat the shadow off you if they want something badly...