Chapter 17, The Flight Summary and Analysis

Linda escapes from the plantation. She informs few of her family and friends of her escape, only stopping at her grandmother's home to remove her belongings from her bedroom—thus creating the illusion that she might have taken off for the northern states. She then ventures to her hiding place at a friend's house. She tells none of her family about her hiding place, so they can truthfully say that have no idea of her whereabouts when they are inevitably interrogated by the Flints.

As expected, Linda's absence is soon noticed and the Flints interview all of Linda's family as well as search every inch of Aunt Marthy's house. Within twenty-four hours of her escape, advertisements offering a reward for her capture are posted at every public gathering place for miles around.