Chapter 18 Summary

Opal immediately gives Gloria a Littmus Lozenge. Gloria remembers the candy very well and says that it tastes sweet, but it also tastes like people leaving. Opal says she has a second surprise for her and reveals the copy of Gone with the Wind, announcing that she'd be happy to read it to her.

Opal reads chapter one loudly and clearly, making sure to keep all of Gloria's ghosts away. Gloria listens well and tells Opal that the book and the candy are the best surprise she's ever had.

That night, Opal gives the Preacher a Littmus Lozenge and tells him a little bit about it. He agrees that there is sadness mixed in with root beer and strawberry. This is when Opal tells her daddy the story of Littmus W. Block.

The Preacher confronts Opal about calling the Dewberry boys bald-headed babies...