The Assistant Chapter 8, Section 2 Summary

  • Frank hears the store owner coming and grows cold.
  • He searches his mind for what to say and doesn't think he can justly apologize for all his wrongdoing without admitting what he did to Helen.
  • Morris thanks him for his help, but tells him he needs to go.
  • Frank says he hasn't stolen since, but Morris says his theft isn't the reason.
  • Frank confesses to being one of the robbers.
  • Morris says he already knew this. He had discerned it from Frank's eyes and hands.
  • Frank apologizes, telling Morris that Ward was the man with the gun, and asking if Morris told Helen what he had done.
  • "Helen ain't interested in you," Morris says.
  • Desperate, Frank pleads his case to stay on. He can pay for his own needs with the money he makes at night.
  • Morris refuses.
  • Frank hangs his apron and clears out. He says goodbye to Tessie and leaves a letter of apology to Helen.
  • She weeps at the letter, but has no response to give to it.