The Saints of Swallow Hill

Del wakes up the following morning and has breakfast with Sudie May, her family, Rae Lynn, and Cornelia. Sudie May reads about the stock market, leading the family to discuss the sinking corn prices. Rae Lynn tells Sudie May that she does not want to be a burden, but she reassures her that there is enough food for all of them and that she and Amos could use her and Cornelia’s help. Del is curious about what happened to Rae Lynn that brought her to Swallow Hill and makes her reluctant to stay in North Carolina. He tells Sudie May that he would like to start a turpentine farm, and Sudie May supports his decision. Amos recommends a man who makes barrels to Del. Sudie May tells him she is glad he is there, and they hug.

Outside, he walks around the property and reminisces about his childhood at the house, his father and grandfather’s work on the trees, and his parents’ loving relationship. He meets up with Sudie May in the garden, where she, Rae Lynn, Cornelia, and the children are working. He tells her everything about his time in Swallow Hill, what he knows about Rae Lynn and his experience in the grain bin.