Miss Smith

II: The School

The founder and head of the school, deeply worried about finances but fiercely committed to her mission of educating Black children.

III: Miss Mary Taylor

The head of the school, representing the older New England generation. She is described as honest, determined, and unselfish, but her personality appeals to Miss Taylor only dimly.

IV: Town

Provides a cynical assessment of the Cresswells, calling the old man a fool, the young one a rascal, and the girl a ninny.

The Place of Dreams

Offers wise counsel to Miss Taylor, warning her about treating Bles as a man and not a clod, and emphasizing the need to understand rather than judge.

Mr. Harry Cresswell

Refuses to expel Zora based on Harry Cresswell's word, asserting her own judgment and educational philosophy.

The Flowering of the Fleece

Miss Smith deliberately brings Zora into her circle, offering her a room and guidance, while also subtly regulating Zora's relationship with Bles.

XII: The Promise

Receives news of the endowment, grapples with the school's future, and confronts the Cresswells' machinations and Bertie's plea.

XIV: Love

Cares for Zora during her illness and informs Bles of her recovery.

XVI: The Great Refusal

Miss Smith stands firm in her principles, refusing Mrs. Grey's endowment because it would put the school under the control of those who do not wish for the best interests of Black folk. She also shows deep care for Zora, holding her through the night, and harshly confronts Mary Taylor for her role in the recent events.

The Rape of the Fleece

Tends to Zora during her illness, offering counsel to bear the hurt and find solace in work. She watches Zora's resolve with a strange light in her eyes.

The Cotton Corner

A figure of stability in the community, she is approached by Aunt Rachel who is suffering from the tightened credit at the Cresswell store.

XX: The Weaving of the Silver Fleece

Concerned for Zora's safety and future, she sees Mrs. Vanderpool's offer as Zora's only chance. She agrees to send Zora to her, hoping it will protect her from the Cresswells.

XXX: The Return of Zora

Struggles with declining school enrollment and finances, finds hope in Zora's return.

XXXII: Zora's Way

Confesses to Zora that the school is doomed due to a failed endowment and a bad mortgage. She is emotionally strained but finds new hope in Zora's strength and the unexpected money.

The Buying of the Swamp

Mentioned as the head of the school, which is struggling financially and mortgaged.

The Cotton Mill

Continues to expand the school's work, hiring new teachers, including Zora and Bles, which draws the ire of Colonel Cresswell.

The Land

Miss Smith is involved in the negotiations to 'buy' the five men from their debts, supporting the school's land project.

Atonement

Receives the official notification of the school's legacy and is moved to tears.