In the morning, Ma insists they leave to find higher ground. Al stays with Aggie and the Wainwrights. Carrying Rosasharn, Winfield, and Ruthie, Ma, Pa, and Uncle John set out along the flooded road. Drenched by a cloudburst, they decide to take shelter in an old barn. Once inside, they realize that they are not alone — a boy is kneeling next to the body of his father.
The boy tells Ma that his father is starving. The weakened man cannot keep down anything solid, but must have some nourishing liquid like soup or milk. Ma looks to Rose of Sharon, and as their eyes meet, there is silent agreement. Ma takes the rest of the family out of the barn, while Rose of Sharon sits next to the father. Loosening the blanket that covers her body, she offers her full breast of milk to the dying man. As he drinks, a mysterious smile appears on her lips.
