Part 3, Chapter 18 Summary

Returning to his home, Aldred revisits memories of his childhood. As he moves through his father's rooms, he remembers childhood impressions of his home and his father. He imagines Helen in his home. His mother, having moved the beneficiary to his father's rooms, discusses with Aldred how life has changed after the war. Different servants are assisting the household, and this change is a reminder that the war has affected everyone. Aldred is reminded of Aurora Searle's comment that he had expected everyone to remain the same. Meeting Dick Laister, a young man who has come to deliver wood, Aldred learns that Dick's father had been injured in the war. Aldred arranges to meet the elder Laister. He also anticipates a letter from Helen or from Tad, who had gone to visit Benedict in California.

Aldred meets with George Laister, whose...