While Jarvis is in the valley, it begins to rain. As noted in an earlier commentary, the beginning of the rain can be seen as a symbol of the renewed hopes and rebirth of the valley. Jarvis is trapped in the rain and must ask Kumalo for permission to leave his saddle on the parson's porch and to take refuge in the church. The building leaks so much that they have to move constantly in order to find better protection. Ultimately, Jarvis will build a new church for the village. During their wait, Jarvis learns that Absalom's plea for clemency has not been granted and that his son's murderer will soon be hanged. Thus the two fathers are left with only the memories of their sons.
Arthur's son comes to Kumalo to learn more Zulu. Kumalo sees the brightness of the father shining in the son. As the boy leaves, Kumalo hopes that he will see the valley reborn before he dies because during his lifetime he has seen so much disintegration.
Mr. Jarvis is not just giving gifts or charity to the people of the valley. Following his son's advice, he is providing the means for the people to help themselves. He provides them with the agricultural demonstrator so that the people themselves can learn how to preserve the land and turn it into a productive valley again.
In these last chapters, there are strong indications of communication and understanding between Mr. Jarvis and Kumalo. As soon as he hears of Mrs. Jarvis' death, Kumalo would like to speak to Jarvis, but custom forbids; he must content himself with writing a letter of condolence. Mr. Jarvis answers, explaining that Mrs. Jarvis had been ill for some time. He writes this explanation so that Kumalo will not think that Arthur's murder caused Mrs. Jarvis to die, thus indicating that Mr. Jarvis has developed a deeper sympathy and compassion for the feeling of the blacks. At the same time, Jarvis promises Kumalo a new church. One of the natives responds by scouring the countryside in order to find the best white lilies for a wreath for Mrs. Jarvis.
