The answer to this question can be found in the closing moments of chapter 11. Chapter 11 moves readers through a lot of various settings as well as through several weeks of time. The majority of the chapter is focused on Kit and her growing relationship with Prudence. The relationship's main focus is teacher and student. Kit is teaching Prudence her letters and the basics of reading. Kit will also introduce Prudence to Hannah. Kit isn't sure that is the right thing to do, but Kit also knows that Prudence needs additional people in her life who support her.

The chapter ends with Kit back at home. William is once again visiting, and his talk is constantly on the home that he is building. Judith is basically the only person that is interested. John is also present, and he is asked to read. Everybody loves to listen to him reading, and on this particular night, he reads poetry by Anne Bradstreet. As he reads, Kit reflects on how he is already a part of the family. At this moment, Kit also looks at Mercy, and Kit realizes without a doubt that Mercy is deeply in love with John. Kit thinks about it, and she realizes that the match is perfect. Kit scans the room to check if anybody else noticed how Mercy was looking at John, but nobody else noticed.