A young deputy arrives at dawn in a sheriff's car and arrests twelve-year-old Robert Stephens at his and Gloria's cabin. Gloria is horrified by the handcuffs and by how quickly the law moves against a Black child, especially with the judge already waiting. She rides with Robert to the courthouse, where the deputy threatens to jail her too if she speaks.

At the segregated courthouse, Gloria is forced through the "colored" entrance and up to the balcony reserved for Black observers. After asking a Black custodian for help, she reaches the gallery in time to watch Judge Morris finish sentencing a white man with sympathy and family consolation. That contrast deepens Gloria's dread before Robert is brought in below, still shackled and alone.

Judge Morris questions Robert about kicking Lyle McCormack. Robert admits it but cannot explain himself fully, and the judge focuses less on Lyle's provocation than on Robert's supposed lack of discipline, his father's absence, and the danger of white retaliation. When Robert reveals that his father is in Chicago, Gloria fears he has exposed too much. Gloria stands and identifies herself, trying to assure the judge that Robert is cared for and not "running wild," but Judge Morris ignores her appeal.

Judge Morris sentences Robert to six months at the Gracetown School for Boys, calling it a lesson in respect and a trade while making a racist threat about what will happen if Robert returns to court. Robert finally breaks down crying as he is led away before Gloria can reach him or say goodbye. Stunned by the speed and cruelty of the decision, Gloria realizes she must get to the Reformatory.

Gloria runs to Miz Lottie Powell's house and collapses while telling her what happened. Miz Lottie comforts her, shares her anger at the McCormacks, and immediately decides to drive to the Reformatory in her old truck. Gloria remembers her father's warning that the place was where "they start killing us," which turns the trip into an urgent attempt to reach Robert before he disappears into a place the family fears.