1. In talking with Karen, Augusta implies that her relationship with Jim has been over for some time, but, as Karen discovers, this is untrue. Why did Augusta lie to Karen? Was it right?

2. Reputation seems to matter a great deal to the residents of New Franklin, including Augusta although she denies it. She tells Karen that while there "is no escape" from the town, "home is home." What does she mean by this?

Why did she move into her parents' home?

3. Should Karen have made love to George? Why or why not? What stopped her?

4. Despite the way she treats him, Jerry still loves Augusta. Why? Should she marry him?

5. Allan writes to Augusta that "a second chance is more than anyone has the right to expect," and yet Augusta left Allan when that chance appeared.

Why?

6. Does Augusta place too much of a...