Mary meets Eleanor Roosevelt at Marino’s in East Harlem, where proprietor Roberto greets Mary warmly and Earl, Eleanor’s security, stands nearby. The meal is convivial as Mary describes the dignity in foods born from slavery’s scraps, and both women admit they do not cook. They note segregation’s reach beyond the South and continue bonding.

Mary reflects on the formality she usually demands from white people and proposes a first-name basis. Eleanor agrees, and the shared laughter cements a sense of friendship. Their conversation shifts from personal histories to the work each is pursuing.

Eleanor then reveals her purpose. While an education project might come later, she focuses on politics, criticizing the Republican Party’s neglect of Black Americans and asserting Democrats should appeal to Black voters. She cites Franklin Roosevelt’s efforts in New York and a broader plan if he runs for president.

Eleanor enthusiastically proposes that Mary meet Franklin Roosevelt and his staff and join the campaign to help secure the Black vote, promising that the team will heed Mary’s guidance. As Eleanor speaks, Mary’s enthusiasm fades; her silence and posture signal discomfort before Eleanor notices.

When asked what is wrong, Mary confirms that Eleanor is asking her to campaign for a Democrat—an affront given the party’s entrenched racism as Mary has experienced it. The chapter closes with Mary leaning in to explain her objection, leaving their newly declared friendship at a delicate turning point.