Chapter 18

Summary

• The chapter is set on March 10, 1932 in New York where Eleanor apologizes to her friend, Mary, for offending her unknowingly.
• Eleanor admits to making a mistake but isn't quite sure about what she's done. She tries to keep their friendship intact by apologizing.
• Mary accepts Eleanor's apology only if they can have a conversation about the issue. She believes their friendship could be jeopardized if they don't.
• Mary explains to Eleanor that she's upset not because of Eleanor's request regarding Governor Roosevelt, but because of how Eleanor just presumed about her political opinions.
• Mary feels Eleanor disregarded her individual will and political alignment, assuming her complete trust and support.
• Eleanor is deeply affected by this, realizing her presumptions might have crossed a line. She is regretful and remorseful about having taken Mary's support for granted.
• Finally, Mary points out how white people, even those who mean well, often assume they know what’s best for people of color. She believes that is what Eleanor unconsciously did as well.
• Eleanor is horrified to realize her actions and apologizes again, feeling embarrassed and remorseful for her assumptions.
• In the end, Mary agrees to have a conversation with Eleanor about her experiences, hoping that by discussing it, they can overcome their differences and misunderstandings.