Part 1, Chapter 9 Summary

On an evening when Mama and Papa have gone out to play cards, Uma finds herself in a rare moment alone in the house. Because Uma has so little time to herself, she delights in indulging in one of her favorite pastimes without fear of interruption by Mama, Papa or the cook. For years, Uma has collected Christmas cards given to her by Mrs. O'Henry, the Baptist missionary's wife, Mother Agnes, and other friends who know of Uma's love for the cards.

After putting the card collection away, Uma stealthily dials Mrs. O'Henry's phone number, afraid that Papa will appear at any minute and demand an explanation for this unwarranted behavior. Uma learns that Mrs. O'Henry is not at home so Uma slams down the phone and proceeds to the veranda where she swings in the moonlight until Mama and Papa...