The group gathered in the small clearing consisted of familiar friends—Faith, Una, Jerry, Carl, Jem, Walter, Nan, Di, and Mary Vance. They were celebrating a significant occasion, as it marked the last evening they would spend together with Jem before he departed for Charlottetown to attend Queen's Academy. The atmosphere was filled with joy, yet an underlying sense of sadness loomed over them as they realized their close-knit friendship would soon change.

As the evening progressed, the cheerful festival contrasted with the bittersweet emotions surrounding Jem's departure. The children’s laughter and celebration were tinged with recognition that this moment represented both a farewell and a new beginning. While they cherished the memories they had created together, the thought of Jem leaving created a sense of longing for the camaraderie they enjoyed in Rainbow Valley.