Noon Wine, Section Two, pp. 112-154 Summary

Mr. Helton settles into life on the Thompson farm, and little by little, he brings modest prosperity to the family. Mr. Thompson has very specific ideas about what counts as "men's work," so he has allowed the farm to fall apart, with old piles of junk everywhere. Mr. Helton never does start talking, but he transforms the farm into something the family can be proud of. Nonetheless, Mr. Thompson can not help but feel a little contemptuous when he sees the careful, scrimping habits that Mr. Helton uses to save money. Mr. Helton earns two raises and with his help, the family can even afford to have indoor plumbing installed.

The only incident when the family does not get along with Mr. Helton happens one day when Ellie is gardening. She happens to...