Cry, the Beloved Country

Kumalo, Gertrude’s son, and Absalom’s wife travel to Ndotsheni by train. At their last stop, Kumalo’s wife waits to greet them. Kumalo tells her that the authorities sentenced Absalom to death, and that Gertrude left. Kumalo’s wife kisses their nephew and daughter-in-law, calling them her children, and the girl starts to cry. They all walk to Ndotsheni together, and many people call out to them on the way, happy to see that Kumalo has returned. Kumalo goes to church, and prays for rain and his son. He returns home and gives his wife Msimangu’s money. He sits and tells his wife about his friend Msimangu.

Kumalo prays every day for rain to restore the land. He tells the chief that he believes they should care for the land so young people stop leaving Ndotsheni. He reminds the chief that the cattle are dying and there is no milk, so children are now sick and dying. The chief tells Kumalo that he will speak to the magistrate about it. Kumalo goes back to his house, hears a horse, and sees a young white boy riding. The boy asks to see his house and then requests milk, but Kumalo says there is no milk in Ndotsheni, so he gives him water.