Chapter 10

Summary

• The chapter is set on the evening of November 6, 1928, when Franklin D. Roosevelt has won the governorship of the state of New York. His victory celebration is described vividly against the backdrop of Eleanor Roosevelt's mixed feelings about Smith losing the presidential election.
• Eleanor ponders on the circumstances that led her back to being a politician’s wife, recalling an event from a month ago. Franklin had been in Georgia undertaking treatment for polio when she received a surprise visit from Governor Smith and Mr. John Raskob, chair of the Democratic National Committee.
• They visited her to formally request that Franklin consider running for governor, assuming Smith would win the presidential election. Eleanor, initially resistant due to Franklin's state of health, was asked to intervene and put Smith in direct contact with Franklin.
• Discussing the decision with Smith, Eleanor juggles her concerns for Franklin's health, their own freedom and independence, and the potential good they could do for the state. Eventually, she decides to place the call to Franklin.
• Following the election results, Eleanor and Franklin find themselves in the town hall in Albany celebrating his victory, but also acknowledging Smith's loss. Eleanor briefly interacts with a woman named Mrs. Broadstreet, who is eager to welcome them to the Executive Mansion, before the woman is hurried away by their new security head, Mr. Earl Miller.
• Eleanor contemplates the physical strain the campaign and victory celebration is taking on Franklin. Observing his exhaustion, she mentally notes that he can reveal no signs of weakness in his new role.
• Throughout the chapter, Eleanor grapples with the complexities of political life, noting the contrasts of defeat and victory, freedom and obligation, that come with their new roles.