Chapter 40
The Fugitive Slave Law
Summary: William
decides to move to California, taking Benny with him. Before they leave, they
discuss the brutal Fugitive Slave Law, that makes it illegal for northerners to
help runaway slaves. Mr. Bruce
re-marries an American woman and hires Linda again. Linda confesses to Mrs.
Bruce that she's a fugitive slave, making the law danger her freedom. Luckily,
the second Mrs. Bruce is just as nice as the first, even though she's an
American. Linda also
learns that Dr. Flint is once more on her trail. Mrs. Bruce helps her escape to
New England and entrusts her with her own baby. Linda seeks refuge in the
country, where she remains for a month. When she learns that Dr. Flint has
given up his pursuit, she returns to New York.
Importance: In this
chapter, we learn about the Fugitive Slave law and how much fear it brings to
Linda and other runaways. Linda fears that she will get caught because
northerners cannot help her. However, the second Mrs. Bruce is just as kind and
helps Linda regain herself and protects her.
Connection To Theme: Because of the Fugitive Slave Law; Linda is very cautious every time she has to run an errand, and fears for her life when she walks outside. Mrs. Bruce helps by sending Linda to live with a senator's wife in New England. This meant that if Linda is caught, they'll have to bring the two back to Mrs. Bruce, who might be able to save her. Linda finally stays for a month until she feels safe enough to return to New York.
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