And with that, this remarkable woman sat down. Together, we had tea and pie, like the real ladies we might have been in another time and place.”
-- Elizabeth (chapter 6)

Importance: The “remarkable woman” is Abigail Adams, and she is visiting after Elizabeth's return from Jeb's funeral. The comment about them being ladies in some other place and time is a reference to their difficult lives because of the Revolutionary War. It hints that things are going to be more difficult before they begin to improve.

News of my having worked some 'witchery' out at Grape Island spread quickly in our small parish. Colonel Quincy and his wife mentioned it the very next day, when they had me to dine at the great house.”
-- Elizabeth (chapter 8)

Importance: It is significant that everyone is talking about this and that the word is spreading, even without the modern communication opportunities. Not only are a few people talking about it...