Summary

The novel opens with Part 1: “Black Swamp, Ohio, Spring 1838.” James Goodenough and his wife, Sadie, are constantly arguing about whether their apple orchard should have more “eaters,” or “spitters” (3). The eaters are used for eating and the spitters are used for making drinks. Sadie wants more spitters. James wants more eaters.

Sadie is, as usual, suffering from a hangover. John Chapman had been their guest the previous evening. His presence always made her happier. James had gone to bed, but was not able to sleep with John and Sadie talking so nearby. He could have gone to bed with the children, farther from the conversation, but could not bring himself to leave the empty bed so near as an unnecessary temptation. James is no longer sexually attracted to Sadie because she is a mean drunk. But he notices...