Chapter 39

Summary

• Mary is relaxing in her accommodations in Hyde Park, New York, and reading a book by Langston Hughes, The Ways of White Folks.
• Mary and Eleanor, dressed in their nightclothes, are discussing Mary's book and keenly waiting to share their thoughts on it once they're both done reading.
• Eleanor appears to be anxious about something, and after some prodding, reveals to Mary that Franklin wants to create a division within the NYA for Negroes. He wants this division to be managed by a colored person and has chosen Mary for this role.
• Mary is shocked by this news, but immensely grateful. They celebrate with bowls of gingergbread and vanilla ice cream.
• During this celebration, Mary thanks Eleanor for the entire experience. They continue to converse about their families, with a focus on the contrast between their experiences with grandparenting.
• As the conversation continues, Eleanor reveals that her friends, Nan and Marion, who are currently visiting the cottage, are in a Boston marriage, increasing Mary’s curiosity.
• Eleanor then reveals her own intimate relationship with a woman named Hick. Even though Eleanor's revealing this was a significant personal disclosure, they continue their conversation focused on love, respect, and the importance of living one's life authentically.