Chapter Three Summary

Life doesn't change much on the farm after Papa dies. The girls continue to complete the hard labor of fieldwork. One afternoon, while chopping down a tree with her Mama and sister, a man rides up on his horse asking for directions. Julie is seventeen-years-old and never thought she would fall in love, but immediately, she feels herself falling for this dark-haired stranger, Hank Richards. Julie is impressed by the way Mama handles the guest the way Papa would have, friendly and confident. When the man tips his hat in greeting, he looks Julie square in the eyes, which makes her blush. Soon, it becomes clear that Hank isn't really lost but has come calling for Julie's benefit. Sensing that some innocent flirtation might be happening, Mama invites Hank to join the family at church on Sunday. Hank happily agrees.

The...