In Chapter 4 of Wait Till Helen Comes, the unsettling atmosphere of the old house intensifies as the children's encounters with the supernatural presence deepen, marked by Michael's growing curiosity, Molly's increasing unease, and Heather's disturbing nighttime experiences.
Key Events and Character Reactions
The chapter focuses on the escalating tension surrounding the graveyard adjacent to the house and the distinct reactions of the three children.
- Michael's Academic Interest: Michael expresses a keen interest in studying the graves in the nearby cemetery, viewing them as historical artifacts. His rational approach, however, contrasts sharply with the preternatural dread that has begun to envelop the house.
- Molly's Mounting Apprehension: Molly finds Michael's desire to explore the graves deeply unsettling. Her unease is palpable, surprising Michael, who doesn't share her growing sense of foreboding. Despite her internal fears, Molly feels embarrassed by her apprehension, yet it significantly impacts her rest. She experiences a night of troubled sleep, plagued by anxiety.
- Heather's Nightmares: The eerie atmosphere extends to Heather, who has a particularly frightening dream during the night. Her distress is evident as she calls out for her mother, highlighting her vulnerability and perhaps her subconscious connection to the unseen entity.
- Graveyard Discovery: The following morning brings a concerning discovery for Molly. She finds both Heather and Michael together in the graveyard, accompanied by the elderly caretaker, Mr. [Caretaker's Name]. This scene underscores the children's increasing proximity and interaction with the site believed to be connected to the ghost.
Summary of Character Experiences
The table below summarizes the core experiences and emotions of the main characters in this pivotal chapter:
| Character | Key Actions and Feelings in Chapter 4 |
|---|---|
| Michael | Expresses desire to study graveyard; surprised by Molly's fear; found in graveyard with Heather and caretaker. |
| Molly | Feels deep unease about the graves; embarrassed by her fears; experiences a restless, sleepless night; discovers Heather and Michael in the graveyard. |
| Heather | Suffers from a bad dream; cries out for her mother during the night; found in the graveyard with Michael and the caretaker. |
Chapter 4 effectively builds suspense, highlighting the growing influence of the supernatural on the children and foreshadowing further unsettling events as their connection to the graveyard and its spectral resident deepens.
