Day of Tears

A year later, Emma and Joe walk around Philadelphia, noticing how differently Black people dress and how differently the white citizens treat them, compared to in the South. Joe and Emma decide to take on the last name of Mr. Henry. They rent a house with Emma’s employment as a laundress and Joe’s work as a blacksmith. Winnie and Charles have split up because she blames him for losing the baby, and Charles blames Joe. Emma withholds blame, instead believing that “the Lord moves in mysterious ways. All we can do is trust in him” (155). Joe misses the quiet of the countryside, although Emma likes the city bustle. Joe admits he is happy, especially when they dress up for church. In their church clothes, he feels like no one would think they were ever slaves, although he feels guilty about those who remain in slavery.

Emma and Joe see Fanny Kemble, who is delighted to see them, although she cautions them that they must speak privately on a smaller street so that they don’t attract unwanted attention. Emma tells Fanny the story, and Fanny admits that Pierce is living here, so Emma and Joe are in danger.