part one: the first message 4 - 8 Summary

In chapter 4, Ed gets a subpoena citing him into court to testify against the bank robber. During court the robber tells Ed that he is a dead man. Ed is haunted by the man's words.

In chapter 5, Ed learns the gunman will only have to serve six months in prison for his crime. Ed tries to forget the man's threat as he works up his courage to visit the first address. He is aware the man is raping his wife. He sees their daughter sitting on the front porch, crying. Ed comes to the conclusion that he has been chosen to care. He knows he must face this drunk man.

In chapter 6, Ed sees the little girl and her mother at the grocery store. He recognizes the woman's voice. Both the woman and...