Caleb's Crossing

Makepeace seeks a private discussion with his sister. He is sadly coming to terms with the fact that he is not one of the most skilled students and is unlikely to succeed at Harvard. Instead, he is thinking of quitting Corlett’s school, even though his sister is still indentured. In order to provide for her, Makepeace has decided to accept Noah Merry’s petition for Bethia’s hand in marriage on Bethia’s behalf, without talking to her first. The Merrys could buy out Bethia’s indenture and she could then become Noah’s wife. When Bethia is beside herself with anger at this news, Makepeace accuses her of having feelings for Caleb—why else would she be upset at the thought of marrying Noah? Enraged, Bethia curses, “God damn you” at her brother (178).

Bethia almost immediately faces consequences after her brother tells Corlett she has taken the Lord’s name in vain aloud. Corlett informs her that offenders can be tortured for this in the colonies. Instead of submitting her to the authorities, Corlett allows Makepeace to beat his sister. Bethia is horrified to see that Makepeace enjoys hitting her.

The wounds begin to fester, but Anne comes to her aid with an herbal compress.