Reesa receives a letter from Vaylie with news. Though she and her mother have been “traveling” a lot to get away from her dad, her terrible family issues are finally resolving. After her “daddy’s momma” had to care for him for a while, she realized that he is ill. The doctors diagnose his illness as manic depression and commit him to a sanatorium where he is receiving electro-shock therapy and is improving. She and her mother are now staying at home, and she has a tutor who promises to help her get back up to grade level.

Reesa responds immediately. In the letter, she encloses a rattlesnake skin as good luck for Vaylie. Then she tells Vaylie of her family’s experiences and the fear with which they now live.

Indictments for perjury are handed down to the Klansmen with J.D. Bowman, Marvin’s killer, leading the list. The McMahons celebrate with a meal out and ice cream all around. Feeling all is well with the world, the family drives home—until Lizbeth yells, “Stop the car!”

In the palmetto beside their walkway are two White boys with ax handles, just like Luther’s choir ladies had told them. One of the boys hurts his ankle on a palmetto, and Warren sets Buddy on the boys.