Summary

In Chapter 8, Johnny and Eliza return to Cambridge. Johnny says he has discovered Kate is not at all the “shy or simpleminded” girl he had first assumed (49). Eliza again brings up the secret of Johnny's father. Eliza remembers her fear of the British during the American Revolution, and now fears what Americans will do to Johnny if they find out he is the son of a former slave. She also worries about Johnny's roommate. Ultimately, she accepts that Johnny, who is 15, “would unlock the mysteries of the universe” (50).

In Chapter 9, Johnny is to share Number 32 of Massachusetts Hall with a boy named Peter Fray. Peter is nude when Johnny enters, and says he does not have a servant to clean his clothes if they get dirty. Peter is from Virginia and shows Johnny around. Peter suggests a wrestling match. Johnny played like...