Chapter 6

Summary

• The chapter is set in Hyde Park, New York at Val-Kill Cottage on February 2, 1928.
• The protagonist Eleanor is playing in the snow with Marion, Nan, and her two youngest sons, Franklin Jr. and John.
• Val-Kill Cottage is a refuge for Eleanor, it's a place where she can be without pretense and can engage in "honest conversation, heartfelt laughter, and strategic planning for our many projects".
• Eleanor reminisces about how she met Marion and Nan at the New York Democratic Women’s fundraiser in June 1922.
• While engaged in the work for the Democratic party, Eleanor, Marion, and Nan form a close-knit group.
• The cottage where they stay was an offer from Franklin. It was, in Eleanor's view, an olive branch for Lucy Mercer.
• She describes the peaceful surroundings of the cottage and refers to it as her "first real home".
• Her sons are reluctant to return to the mother-in-law's house, Springwood, for a formal dinner, preferring a simple meal at the cottage. Yet she sends them back, promising to attend family breakfast the next day.
• Marion and Nan, who are in a Boston marriage, discuss the possibility of Franklin attending the dinner at Springwood with Eleanor.
• It is hinted that Eleanor might not be excited about her husband, Franklin, becoming actively involved in politics again.
• Nan reveals rumors about Governor Smith being a potential presidential candidate, which pleases Eleanor.