Summary

The drilling begins on the Devlin farm as Chapter 7 opens. It is contrasted with a description of the local forest and all the generations of children who have played there. Cobs has had a heart attack and passed away suddenly, and his estranged wife inherited the property. She came to town, promptly leased it to Dark Elephant, and left after the funeral. Not long after, the men came to set up the drill rig. Shelby complains of the noise and the smell, but Rich is ecstatic. This money will be his way out of the correctional facility, the way he can build his own farm.

On the steps outside of Jess’s split-level ranch, Herc contemplates his choice in hostess gift. Flowers are too risky, with the different meanings each color can convey. Wine is awkward, as Jess was a preacher and may...