Chapter 4 Summary

Ned explains that he has more right to a trip than either Boon or Lucius, and the duo agree to take Ned with them. Boon attaches the headlights to the vehicle, consisting of lanterns, and the men drive to Ballenbaugh's. Through the narrative, Lucius explains that Ballenbaugh's has changed hands often, as well as changed purpose, over the years. Now a fishing camp run by an Italian bootlegger, the area has also been a general store, gambling casino, dormitory for freighters, dance hall, and general den of mischief. During the summer of 1865, however, a young minister named Hightower came to the area and converted most of the area. In 1905, Ballenbaugh's is now a small general store with a small loft above for travelers run by an older single woman, Miss Ballenbaugh.

As the three arrive, Miss Ballenbaugh greets them in front, along with...