Part 2, Chapter 1 Summary

When their train arrived at the station, the porter was waiting with his wagon to retrieve the judge's body. Also on hand were Laurel's six bridesmaids, as they still called themselves. In addition, Miss Adele Courtland, the doctor's sister, was at the front of the group. She embraced Laurel and called her by her childhood name, Polly. As she moved among their embraces, Tish Bullock told her that they had come to meet them and take them home. Fay didn't understand what this group was doing here.

Mr. Pitts, the undertaker, asked Laurel whether the judge would lie in repose at home or in their parlor. She told him that he should be at home of course. Fay interrupted by saying that she was Mrs. McKelva and these decisions were hers. Laurel heard a deep sound and realized that it was...