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Uncle Tom’s Cabin, Chapter 7 summary

Chapter 7 of 45 · 21 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 7, Eliza carries Harry toward the Ohio River while Mrs. Shelby, the servants, Sam, and Andy delay Haley’s pursuit through conversation, slow service, and misleading directions. When Haley reaches her refuge, she escapes across floating ice with Harry, and Mr. Symmes helps her ashore and directs her toward a house offering help.

What happens

  1. Eliza travels through the night with Harry, then controls her appearance and pace to avoid attracting suspicion.
  2. She reaches an inn beside the Ohio River, where ice prevents the ferry from running and Harry falls asleep.
  3. The household delays Haley, while Uncle Tom urges forgiveness and Mrs. Shelby promises to buy Tom back.
  4. Sam leads Haley along a blocked road, then warns Eliza with a shout when the pursuers reach the inn.
  5. Eliza grabs Harry and crosses the moving ice as Haley chases her toward the river.
  6. Mr. Symmes helps Eliza ashore and points out a helpful household, while Sam and Andy leave Haley behind.

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In this chapter

TomElizaGeorge Shelby

What to notice

Eliza’s own hunger matters less than Harry’s safety. The line states the priority that drives her journey and her desperate crossing.

Quick check

How does Sam delay Haley on the way to the river?

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