Summary

The narrator opens Chapter 19 with commentary from the people of Cotton County on the paving of Twelve-Mile Straight. Many were skeptical of progress, though women tended to be more optimistic about the improvements technology could bring to their lives.

The narrator then switches to Nan’s point of view. On New Year’s Eve, Parthenia’s pearl colored Buick pulled up in the driveway of the farm to take her to a delivery. The driver, Frank, revealed she had stolen $10 from his cousin, who was also a driver for the Wilson’s. Frank told Nan that George needed her to deliver the baby of a mill girl. Frank’s sister Mag helped Nan deliver the baby in George Wilson’s office. George recognized Nan. He gave her his condolences for the loss of Ketty, but told her he would not pay her. He...