The Downstairs Girl

Caroline is heartbroken after Mr. Q. breaks off their relationship. Though Caroline does not love him, she is distraught at the reason for his coldness. She tells Jo Mr. Q. has learnt Mrs. Payne has an illegitimate daughter. Since Caroline is illegitimate, no one in Atlanta high society will want to associate with her. Caroline also fears that Mr. Payne will abandon her. Jo assures her Mr. Payne dotes on her. Jo cheers up Caroline and realizes her perspective on Caroline has shifted. She also notes inwardly that the rumor has been spread by Miss Saltworth, whom she realizes is the hooded figure at Billy’s digs. Mrs. Saltworth must have bought the information from Billy Riggs.

At the streetcar stop, Old Gin refuses to sit in the rows for either white people or people of color, saying he and Jo don’t fit into any of the categories. He is brown and Jo is white in complexion. He refuses to take the streetcar as a protest. Jo is proud of Old Gin for choosing “not to play in a rigged game” (238), even though avoiding the streetcar will make their way to work longer.