Chapter 6 Summary

Grant finds Tante Lou and Miss Emma at home when he returns from school, but goes to Pichot's home ten minutes early. Inez, who has been crying, offers him a seat and a cup of coffee, which Grant refuses. Inez tells Grant that Louis Rougon is with Pichot. By 5:15pm, the sheriff has not appeared; and Grant is still in the kitchen with Inez, where he remains.

At 5:30pm, Sam Guidry, the sheriff, and his wife, Edna Guidry, are heard entering the house. Edna Guidry comes to the kitchen and talks with Grant and Inez in a friendly manner. She tells Grant that she is deeply upset by Jefferson's fate and pours herself a drink, before telling Grant that the sheriff will see him after dinner.

As Inez serves, she gives Grant quick appraisals of what is being discussed by Guidry, Pichot and...