Why doesn't Tom initially tell Peter and the others that he suspected that the town's water supply may be tainted? Who conducts the analysis of the Spring water? What are their findings?

Why does Peter choose to discredit the report that his brother, Tom, receives on the condition of the Spring water? What is Peter most concerned with in his position as Mayor of the town relative to the water system? What motivations does Peter give Tom for wanting to publicize the water analysis?

What does Peter fear if the water report is publicized? How does he convince Hovstad not to publish the water report? Why will Peter be blamed for the dangerous condition of the water? What methods of intimidation does Peter use?

How does Hovstad plan to use the water system issue to his benefit? How does he first feel toward the...