Chapter 5 Summary

On the day of the party, Scarlett is in a twist over what to wear. Mammy has already laced Scarlett for an 18-inch waist, but none of the dresses appeal to her. Scarlett sets her mind on a green sprig muslin for which she will need a 17-inch waist. Mammy comes in to help her dress, and demands that Scarlett eat beforehand, as no proper Southern girl eats in public. Scarlett fights Mammy, as she remembers the smells of the barbecue and disappointment of not being able to eat the succulent food. Scarlett finally relents with the compromise that Mammy will let her wear the green dress that is an evening dress not proper for a picnic.

On the way to Twelve Oaks, Scarlett is sad for her mother not being able to join them, but happy to be away from her and...