Eleanor returns to Val-Kill Cottage after a snowball fight with her sons and settles in with Nancy Cook and Marion Dickerman. She relishes the refuge’s informality compared to Springwood and recalls meeting Nan and Marion at a 1922 Democratic women’s fundraiser, where shared violets sparked a friendship and political touring that gave her new purpose.

Eleanor remembers how Franklin and Sara welcomed Nan and Marion, and how Franklin offered land and oversaw Val-Kill’s construction—an olive branch after the Lucy Mercer affair. As the boys make cocoa and play cards, Eleanor reflects that Val-Kill feels like her first true home.

When dinner time nears, Franklin Jr. and John plead to avoid Springwood’s formalities, but Eleanor sends them to Sara’s table, noting her improved bond with the boys. She acknowledges Nan and Marion’s discreet Boston marriage and, in conversation, credits Sara for defending Mary McLeod Bethune at a previous club luncheon. Franklin is away at a local Democratic meeting, stirring Eleanor’s unease about politics.

Nan reports rumors that Governor Al Smith will run for president. Eleanor is pleased, recalling her spirited 1924 campaign work for him, but hears no signs of Franklin’s return to office. Relieved, she hopes to maintain her life at Val-Kill with Nan and Marion and continue their Todhunter commitments rather than resume the role of a politician’s wife.