Chapters 31-33 Summary

From boyhood Albert has not been good at mechanical things, and has a hard time getting the car out of Rouginard. Margot asks tartly what his plans are, but he has none beyond reaching the mountains. He is distraught and confused. As the road starts to wind, Margot reminds him to stay to the right and suggests either she drive or they hire a chauffeur. Albert requires more reassurance of Margot's innocence, and she grows tired of giving them. Seeing Margot shrug out of a coat, Albert is filled with nostalgia and pulls over to weep uncontrollably. To the left rise red cliffs. To the right, beyond a parapet, plunges a ravine cut by a rushing river. Recovering, Albert drives on and seems to be doing better as they approach a sharp curve. High above, an old woman gathering herbs sees...