Part One, Chapter Six Summary

It is during Mrs. Forrester's first winter on the hill that Niel believes that he gets to know her well. Three nights each week, Niel and his uncle go to play whist, a card game, at the Forrester's home. Niel finds himself becoming comfortable in the Forresters' home and with their way of living.

In March, thirty inches of snow falls in Sweet Water. Three days after the storm, Niel braves the snow to take the Forresters' mail to them. Mr. Forrester lets Niel in once he reaches the house as Mrs. Forrester is lying down with a headache. Mrs. Forrester comes downstairs as the two men are looking at Mr. Forrester's bulbs and flowers. Niel notices that she smells like alcohol. Mr. Forrester asks for tea and toast for the afternoon. He watches to make sure...