Summary

In Chapter 44, John arrives at the room. Elizabeth goes to the hall to keep watch and to give them some privacy, and remains there for the hours John dares remain. The next morning, Elizabeth teasingly asks Eliza for details, saying she is destined to be “an old maid and must live vicariously” (344). Eliza teases back, but grows serious when she describes John holding Johnny, knowing it might be his only opportunity. Though Eliza does not want to leave, Elizabeth receives a letter saying her brother, Harry, is at the farm. The women return to Braintree where Harry and Elizabeth have a heartfelt reunion. Harry has gifts, mainly food that is in such short supply, and the women begin to plan a party, including orange cake.

In Chapter 45, Harry begins working on chores around the farm and it becomes clear that he has...