Book 2: Chapter 13 Summary

Jim wakes up to find his grandmother crying because she has heard of Jim going to the Firemen's Hall dances. People say Jim is growing up poorly, and it makes his grandparents look badly. Jim promises not to return to the Firemen's Hall. Jim continues in his lonesome way, and he gets a sad joy from making a May basket for Nina Harling. Jim walks home often with Frances and discusses his plans with her. Frances comments that Jim glamorizes the country girls and says, "The trouble with you, Jim, is that you're romantic."

Jim's commencement is approaching and Mrs. Harling plans to attend. Jim's oration is very impressive, and Mrs. Harling gives Jim a silk umbrella as a gift. On Jim's way home, Lena, Tony and another girl all tell Jim how wonderful his speech was. A'ntonia says it reminded...