Short Answer 
The response highlights the importance of the rural, isolated setting in understanding Mrs. Hopewell’s character, showcasing her longing for companionship after her divorce. It emphasizes her relationships, particularly with the Freeman family, who provide the emotional support and connection she seeks in her lonely life.
Step 1: Understand the Setting
To make an inference about Mrs. Hopewell, it’s crucial to first examine the setting of the story. The excerpt describes a wide and isolated expanse of farmland, which indicates that Mrs. Hopewell’s environment is rural and lacking in immediate companionship. This isolation suggests that her life and activities are largely constrained to this farmland.
Step 2: Analyze Mrs. Hopewell’s Relationships
Mrs. Hopewell’s need for companionship is highlighted through her interactions. After her divorce, she finds herself alone and longs for company, especially someone to walk with her through the fields. Her daughter, Joy, does not share this interest, leading Mrs. Hopewell to hire the Freeman family, who have been pivotal in providing her the companionship she desires.
Step 3: Draw Conclusions About Mrs. Hopewell
Based on the provided information, we can infer that Mrs. Hopewell is a woman seeking not just physical company but also emotional support. The Freeman family has become a significant part of her life, offering assistance and companionship that were lacking before. The consistent mention of their positive impact reinforces that the setting plays an essential role in her search for connection, emphasizing the isolation of her rural existence.