Uncle Lucius tells Tammy that Grandpa has been going downhill ever since she's grown up and moved. She goes to the houseboat to find nothing seems to phase his "withering away" mindset. Tammy turns to Mr. Brent who explains that Grandpa no longer feels he has a purpose. She gets the idea to write love letters, crafted by Mr. Whitt, to him as if it is from an interested woman. Lavinia asks Mr. Brent for suggestions for the vacancy on the board for the historical society. He insists upon Grandpa Tarleton who would benefit from a renewed sense of place. Wishing to please him she agrees and writes a note to Grandpa. He mistakes this for his secret admirer revealing herself. Now he aims to go a' courtin'