The family gathers at the home of Uncle Wilson and Aunt Dorothy for Thanksgiving. Despite Wilson’s usual display of pompous authority, Alfred thinks it is the best Thanksgiving ever. He is surprised that he gets along so well with his cousin Jeff, the college boy. Jeff expresses an interest in boxing, and Alfred is curious about his cousin’s plans after college. Initially intending to work in Africa with the Peace Corps, Jeff is having second thoughts. He wonders if he might not do more good by staying home and working with black communities in the inner-city. Alfred surprises Aunt Pearl by expressing an interest in finishing high school. He and Jeff discuss the idea of black recreation centers.
When Alfred returns home, the appearance of James, who looks like a “shuddering old man” hiding behind a garbage can near the front entrance to the building, disturbs Alfred. James wants help, in the form of money. When Alfred offers food and shelter, James insists that he needs money for just one more fix. With regret, Alfred gives him six dollars, and James immediately takes off.
