Hester

Isobel is running out of coins when the local undertaker approaches her to stitch a shroud, which many local stitchers consider bad luck. As she is sewing, she feels her child move for the first time, and is surprised by her joy. Several days later, she encounters Darling, who expresses regret that his gloves got her fired from Mrs. Adams’s shop. Isobel, more concerned that he will spot her pregnancy, reassures him. Later, while she is working in her garden, Darling brings her more silks. She refuses the gift for fear of gossip, but agrees to a business deal in which she will repay him once she turns the silks into dresses to sell. Mercy and Ivy arrive while Darling is present, and Mercy tensely reports that her son Abraham has gone north, “up Canada way” (320). Isobel wonders if Mercy sent Abraham away for fear that the slave catcher will mistake him for his target. Darling leaves with Mercy and Ivy, and Isobel hopes she never has to bid her own child farewell.

Isobel continues to sew for the undertaker and produces a cloak that helps a local girl with a hunched back stand upright. Widow Higgins arrives to collect rent, which Isobel pays through December.