Part 3, Chapter 42 Summary

On June 25, 1979, Willie sold the Times and left the lawyer's office with a check for $1.5 million. He felt sad as he thought about all he was giving up. He and the paper had grown up together. He had transformed the paper into a wildly prosperous business. He returned to the office and told his staff the news. Then he and Harry Rex celebrated over margaritas.

The Ruffin family planned an impromptu reunion, and Willie felt lucky to be able to host most of them in his large home. He was happy to have activity in his large, lonely house. One night, while having dinner, Willie and his guests heard sirens. Maxine Root had received an unexpected package. After deliberating whether to open it, the trooper that was stationed to watch her decided to shoot it. The huge explosion blew shrapnel everywhere...