What is the mood in maycomb as the trial approched? what is gem worrying about?

As trial day approaches Atticus is working harder. Jem is worried about his father's safety and if the jury will be fair.There is quite a crowd in front of the court house. Despite the tension, there is almost a festive atmosphere.THe trial has become a focal point for Maycomb. Many of the people have come from out of town. Among the strangers the kids spot Mr. Dolphus Raymond, who's drinking out of a paper sack; Jem says that in the bag is a Coca-Cola bottle full of whiskey.

Dill asks why Mr. Raymond's sitting on the far side of the square with the African-Americans, and Jem says that he likes them better than the whites, and that he has several children by an African-American woman. Jem explains that he's from an old, respected family; he was engaged to a white woman, but she shot herself after the wedding rehearsal, perhaps because she found out about his African-American mistress; since then Mr. Raymond's been almost constantly tipsy, but is good to his “mixed” children.