Chapter 7, Mary & Wilbur Summary and Analysis

Milford is divided by the Huron River but it is more of a stream when it passes through. It divides the south side from the north, and also divides higher-class from lower-class commercial establishments. The souls and psyches of the inhabitants are also so divided. The town has many nice establishments and Thomas served as president of the Chamber of Commerce, so he should know. It is also a good place to raise and bury families.

Terrors have happened on both sides of the river. Thomas gives some gruesome examples. A fire whistle often signals disaster now to the townspeople. The town looks like a late-century rendition of Lake Wobegon, but it has its share of tragedy. When Thomas and his wife take night walks, she admires architecture while he is reminded of various deaths tied to...