Reverend Whitfield managed to cross the ford that the Bundrens attempted unscathed. He considers that this was the work of divine benediction. However, he is remorseful over the affair with Addie that resulted in Jewel’s conception. While Addie vowed to never reveal the secret, Whitfield feels that it is his duty to tell Anse and to beg for his forgiveness. However, when he arrives at the house, Addie is already dead.

Darl watches Jewel ride to Armistid’s house and come back with Armistid and his team, who mount Addie’s coffin and ailing Cash on top of it.

The Bundrens are to stay with Armistid and his wife, Lula. As with Samson’s house, Anse says that they will make use of the shed and that they will have no need of the house. Anse finally accepts, and they go into the house and receive hospitality. There is talk of getting another team of mules together.

Jewel, however, stays outside with his horse, baiting it and striking it in the face with the back of a curry comb.

Anse takes Jewel’s horse and rides off to purchase a new team of mules on credit to complete the journey. He refuses Armistid’s offer of his own team of mules, affirming that Addie would have only consented to travel in one owned by the family.