Summary

Ruth recovers from childbirth and her son flourishes. Ruth asks Faith to help her find lodging. Ruth intends to become a seamstress again to support her son. Mr. Benson asks Ruth to wait until her son is at least a year old before she thinks of going back to work. He explains that she can help them with housework to keep herself busy. He encourages her to stay for her son’s sake. Ruth agrees but is still depressed, feeling guilt and regretful over her past.

When Sally sees Ruth crying one day, she chastises her, telling her that her tears will bring bad luck to the child. Sally reminds Ruth that though her past may be sad, her present is happy. Sally explains to Ruth that she spent much of her own childhood feeling guilty about what she had done (or thought...