Page 75 (1/2)

I figure they’ve co after hernews of Thomas He hasn’t been seen for weeks Bitsy runs for the house to wash up and bring out so my forehead with my blue-and-white bandanna The reverend nods formally

Mildred Miller calls out, "How you doin’, honey?"

We settle on the wooden benches in the shade on the porch I offer Mildred the one rocking chair, and she insists that her husband take it Then Bitsy co water is so cold we don’t need ice Not that we have any

"Have you heard from Thomas?" Bitsy starts out I know she’s been worried, but with Sheriff Hard for him, it’s better that he’s disappeared We just need to know that he’s safe

"No," the pastor answers "No word yet We’ve co to tell it to you plainMrs Potts went to ood Christian woed from the cancer, that’s what Doc Robinson says"

"Cancer? I didn’t know She seee What kind of cancer was it? Did anyone know?" I’, but Mrs Miller reaches for her and holds her tight

"What thisher Jesus fan slowly back and forth in front of her face, "is thathave only one one too, you probably heard"

"What about the other physician, Dr Robinson?"

"He doesn’t do deliveries, and he doesn’t go to people’s hoo to hiest

"Yes, Beckybut she won’t go out after dark and she’s no great shakes about birthing Too nervous" This, Iher at Docey’s birth down under the bridge; she’s a real nervous Nellie

"Anyway," the pastor continues, "we thought you’d want to know that people will be calling on you" He takes Bitsy and s Infant things"

Great, I think, and e tell thee rashes, and monthlies? I’m not a doctor, and I’ve never had female troublesexcept my periods, which come when they want to, but that never botheredus know"

"When are they putting Mrs Potts in the ground?" Bitsy asks It’s the first thing she’s said

"Sunday The whole church service will be dedicated to her Samantha and E the solos"