Out of Darkness

One afternoon, Tommie visits Naomi, worrying about her dress project which needs to be remade. Naomi says Tommie will need a sewing machine if she hopes to finish her project by Monday. Returning home, Henry interjects and tells Naomi and Tommie to follow him. At neighbors Bud and Muff’s house, Henry surprises Naomi with a sewing machine, hinting that he has been saving it for a special occasion. Later, Tommie asks Naomi if her birthday is approaching, noting that Christmas has just passed. Naomi asks Tommie what she means, and the latter wonders aloud what special occasion Henry might have been referring to.

Since the weather is warm for February, Pastor Tom and the congregation gather by the river for baptisms. Pastor Tom seeks out Naomi, asking about life at home and inquiring if she has noticed any changes in Henry. He believes Naomi and the twins are the final piece in God’s plan for Henry to become the domesticated, righteous person he hopes he can be. In a moment of realization, Naomi asks Pastor Tom if it was he who told Henry to bring them to New London. She reminds Pastor Tom that Henry is not her father and is confused when he seems pleased by this.