In Chapter 16, St. Clare, Marie, and Miss Ophelia have a conversation about slavery and religion. Initially, Marie expresses her frustration with how neglectful people, including her servants, are towards her. She also feels that her husband is part of this indifferent group and views Eva as unusual for wanting to assist others, including the servants.

According to St. Clare, enslaved servants may not be able to control their behavior due to the challenging circumstances they endure. When Miss Ophelia asserts that slave owners have an obligation to their servants, St. Clare points out the hypocrisy of Northern individuals who decry the mistreatment of enslaved people but still hold prejudice towards Black people. St. Clare swiftly rebukes the way religion is employed when Marie takes pleasure in a church sermon that supports slavery. He declares that Eva is the only genuine democrat, showing kindness and compassion towards all individuals regardless of their race or social status.