Summary

Chapter 7 occurs in Eliza’s perspective and takes place in 1916. The house in Connecticut purchased by Eliza and Henry has been named ‘The Hay.’ Eliza focuses on her correspondence with Sofya and their upcoming trip together. Sofya writes every weekday. She informs Eliza of the Streshnayvas’ narrow escape from “a savage mob” in St. Petersburg (75). Eliza wonders the Streshnayvas will begin to take their circumstances seriously. She hopes for the best while preparing her trip abroad as daily talk of a ceasefire spreads among New Yorkers. Henry has kept the location of the trip a secret. Eliza’s Irish housemaid Peg, whose given name is Julia Smith, assists in the preparations. Caroline wishes to remain in Manhattan and join the Girl Scouts with her friend Betty.

Henry arrives home with his friend Richard Merrill, having planned a tennis match together. The men met...