Settlement, pages 205-222 Summary

When Goody Johnson is buried in March, Reverend Cornwell conducts the service, and though Reverend Johnson dabs at his eyes and nose, Mary is unsure if his tears are caused by sorrow or the wind. Later that month when Reverend Johnson preaches that it is better to marry than to burn, it is obvious that he wants a new wife. There are plenty of candidates, particularly Deborah Vane who disregards the interest of Ned Cardwell and Josiah Compton, having eyes only for Reverend Johnson. Mary is not pleased when Reverend Johnson turns his attention to Rebekah, asking John for her hand though she and Tobias are to be married in the spring. When she finds Rebekah crying, Rebekah confides in Mary that she is pregnant, and Mary encourages her to tell her mother before her father decides in favor...