After Jim ships out, Vivian briefly receives the sympathy and support of the local people in Clinton. A friend from school is getting married and asks Vivian to salvage two heirloom wedding dresses to make a new one. The creation is such a success that Vivian starts a modest sewing business and quits her job with her father’s company. In July of 1942, the family receives an unexpected visit from Peg. She wants Vivian to return to New York and help her with a show she’s contracted to produce for the U.S. Government at the Brooklyn Navy Yard.

Even though the Morris family is baffled as to why anyone would want Vivian back, they’re happy to get her off their hands. She is equally delighted to be returning to the city. Peg has forgiven the catastrophe that sent Vivian away to Clinton. Billy has taken City of Girls to the upscale Morosco Theater. Edna is now doing Shakespeare and living at the Savoy Hotel with Arthur. No one has heard from Celia, but Peg is sure she’s landed on her feet. Benjamin is in the army, but Mr. Herbert and Olive are still around.