What would happen if the children (Jem, Scout, and Dill) hadn't arrived at the jailhouse when they did?

This hypothetical question is interesting because there could be numerous outcomes to the "mob scene" had the children not shown up when they did. One possible outcome could have resulted in Mr. Underwood saving Atticus and Tom Robinson from the mob. At the end of Chapter 15, Mr. Underwood is looking out of his window holding a double-barrel shotgun. He told Atticus, "Had you covered the whole time." (Lee 206) Mr. Underwood could have been...

This hypothetical question is interesting because there could be numerous outcomes to the "mob scene" had the children not shown up when they did. One possible outcome could have resulted in Mr. Underwood saving Atticus and Tom Robinson from the mob. At the end of Chapter 15, Mr. Underwood is looking out of his window holding a double-barrel shotgun. He told Atticus, "Had you covered the whole time." (Lee 206) Mr. Underwood could have been forced to open fire, effectively killing the Old Sarum bunch and saving Atticus and Tom.

Another possible outcome could include Atticus reasoning with Walter Cunningham and his men. In the original scene, Walter displayed the ability to understand Atticus' perspective and was willing to leave. Had the children not shown up, Atticus could talk Walter and his men out of harming Tom Robinson. Atticus is a very persuasive individual and could mention that Tom was going to be convicted regardless. The Old Sarum bunch could agree with Atticus, and leave without harming anyone.

In the worst case scenario, Atticus could have been injured or killed by the mob, had the children not shown up. Walter Cunningham and his men were inebriated and could easily overpower Atticus to get to Tom Robinson. Tom Robinson would probably have been lynched by the mob if they were able to get passed Atticus. In the original scene, Sheriff Tate was off in the woods chasing a "snipe hunt" and would not have been able to respond. (Lee 202)