Mary arrives at the White House without an appointment after days of being put off, worn down by sleeplessness and an alarming FBI visit. Eleanor, pressed by wartime demands, initially rebuffs her due to an urgent letter for Mrs. Churchill. The two women clash, each voicing frustration over being sidelined and overwhelmed, then quickly apologize and recommit to their friendship.

With tempers cooled, Eleanor confides that Franklin unexpectedly asked her to live together again “as man and wife,” wanting her home and focused on their life. Eleanor, recalling his affair with Lucy and valuing her independence and public mission, refused the proposal, resolving not to revert to her former, trusting self.

Mary then reveals the urgent cause of her visit: the FBI is investigating her as a Communist and has placed her on a custodial detention list. Agents questioned her staff for months and, the previous day, interrogated Mary at her Washington home about contacts with leftist organizations tied to her educational and community work. She asserts her anti-Communist beliefs and religious convictions, but fears arbitrary detention.

Eleanor denounces the probe as a political witch hunt, suspects instigation by Steve Woodburn or Congressman Martin Dies, and vows to intervene—up to confronting J. Edgar Hoover. The scene ends with Eleanor’s renewed solidarity and determination to protect Mary while standing firm in her personal autonomy from Franklin.