Summary

After returning to Mrs. Lithebe’s house, Kumalo is surprised by a visit from the white reformatory worker, who apologizes for his unnecessary anger, admitting he has a tendency to lash out when he fails in his work. He reverses his position and urges Kumalo to get a lawyer who can make a judge believe that Absalom is telling the truth, both about the presence of his accomplices and his unwillingness to kill. The white man accompanies him to see Father Vincent, hoping he might recommend a lawyer. Father Vincent is more than happy to help secure a lawyer, as well as to marry Absalom and the girl. The white man leaves and Kumalo pours his grief out to Father Vincent, wondering how Absalom turned out so badly and what he and his wife could have done to prevent it. He is devastated...