Homecoming

The Tillerman children navigate bus routes, eventually settling in Annapolis. Though they don’t view Eunice as their jailer, James and Dicey worry about their cousin alerting the police and returning them to her care. Dicey feels increasingly relaxed as they travel further from Bridgeport. She reassures her siblings that she planned on returning for them after investigating their grandmother’s farm. James embraces the “runaway” label. Their journey is more populated and congested, and Dicey worries about Sammy and Maybeth getting lost in crowds.

James expresses frustration with Dicey for not planning their journey with more secure housing along the routes; Dicey reminds him that she intended to make the trip alone and, therefore, must make quick decisions as they flee. Carrying her earnings from the past several weeks, Dicey considers purchasing a knife, can opener, and ponchos, though she restricts herself from daydreaming about bed rolls and blankets. After eating ice cream for dinner, they try to find a comfortable, private sleeping spot at a college and then in the historic district. They eventually travel to the sea, which pleases Dicey. Dicey spots an abandoned house, where they decide to camp for the night. Maybeth sings as the children settle down for the night.