Part 1, Encounter: Chapters 3-4 Summary

In chapter 3, Irene is determined not to see Clare Kendry again. However, when Tuesday dawns, Clare begins calling over and over again until Irene finally accepts the call and the invitation to tea. When Irene arrives at Clare's hotel room she discovers that Clare has also invited Gertrude, another childhood friend who also married a white man. However, Gertrude's husband is fully aware of her racial heritage. As Irene listens, Clare and Gertrude talk about the fear they felt during their respective pregnancies that their babies might be born with dark skin. Irene becomes offended by this discussion as one of her own sons has dark skin. The subject then turns to another childhood friend who has adopted the Jewish religion. Again Irene is offended by Gertrude and Clare's amusement at this man's devotion to his religion...