Summary

In Chapter 6 of The Negress, Harker and Dessa's relationship develops. The group finalizes their plans for their scheme. Rufel will pose as their mistress, and will sell the men back into slavery, bondage from which they will later escape. Though Dessa is still frustrated with Nathan and Rufel, she ignores her feelings for the sake of the plan, and because she has Harker.

At the start of their journey, they stay at Mr. Oscar's plantation. Posing as Rufel's lady's maid, Dessa realizes how difficult the job is. Rufel also realizes how poorly other slaves are treated. The women attempt to assume their respective roles. That night, Rufel comes back to the room drunk. In the middle of the night, Dessa wakes to find Mr. Oscar in Rufel's bed. Rufel begs her for help and they drive the man from the room. From...