Twelve Years a Slave, Chapter 21 summary
Chapter 21 of 24 · 20 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 21, Henry B. Northup travels south as New York’s appointed agent, finds Solomon Northup through Bass, and removes him from Epps’s plantation with the sheriff’s help. After Solomon’s identity and free status are established, Epps formally surrenders him to New York’s authorities, and Solomon departs with Henry by steamer.
What happens
- Anne receives Bass’s letter, submits a petition with supporting affidavits, and secures Henry B. Northup’s appointment as the governor’s agent.
- In Marksville, John P. Waddill connects the letter with Bass, who identifies Solomon’s location and his enslaved name, Platt.
- Rumors threaten the rescue, so Henry and the sheriff obtain legal authorization and leave just after midnight.
- In the cotton field, Solomon recognizes Henry and answers the sheriff’s questions about his family and northern home.
- Epps threatens the unidentified letter writer, while Solomon’s companions gather to question him and say goodbye.
- At Marksville, Epps accepts the evidence and signs away his claim; Solomon and Henry leave aboard a steamer.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Patsey’s farewell joins happiness for Solomon with fear for herself. His release does not free the companions he leaves behind.
Quick check
Why does finding Bass make the search for Solomon more precise?
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