Summary

Chapter 1

The book begins with Peter, a Christian missionary, preparing to leave for America. He’s accompanied by his wife, Beatrice, also a devout Christian. Despite having spent the night together before, Bea wants to make love to Peter one last time before he leaves. Peter is surprised by the request, but he fulfills it because he wants to make his wife happy. Although he doesn't say it, he thinks to himself how hard it is going to be for them to be separated for such a long time. Once they arrive at the airport Peter goes to one of the churches so he can pray. When he returns, his wife is comforting another family that has been waiting hours because their flight was continually delayed. Peter notes that despite the many flaws of the couple, they are still God’s children and...