Chapter 36, A Hairbreadth Escape Summary and Analysis

Upon returning from her travels, Linda again visits her daughter in Brooklyn, but still is careful to avoid Mr. Thorne, who is still a guest in the Hobbs' home. However, Mr. Thorne, aware that Linda has been avoiding him, insists on meeting with her. He is cordial to Linda, and seems genuinely grateful for many kindnesses bestowed upon him by her grandmother, Aunt Marthy. While he ardently insists that he would never betray one of Aunt Marthy's grandchildren,it is later discovered that he has been writing to Dr. Flint and informing him of Linda's whereabouts.

At this point, Linda, aware that Dr. Flint will soon come to New York in order to fetch her, must leave her comfortable station in the Bruce home and, for the first time, confesses to Mrs. Bruce that she...