Question

She was one of the few gentlewomen I have ever known, and has remained throughout my life the measure of what a human being can be.

One summer afternoon, sweet-milk fresh in my memory, she stopped at the Store to buy provisions. Another Negro woman of her health and age would have been expected to carry the paper sacks home in one hand, but Momma said, “Sister Flowers, I’ll send Bailey up to your house with these things.”
She smiled that slow dragging smile, “Thank you, Mrs. Henderson. I’d prefer Marguerite, though.” My name was beautiful when she said it. “I’ve been meaning to talk to her, anyway.” They gave each other age-group looks.

Answer 1

This passage is describing a meeting between two African American women, one of whom is named Marguerite and the other Mrs. Henderson. The narrator, who is likely a young Marguerite, speaks highly of Mrs. Henderson and considers her to be a rare and exceptional person. Despite her age and the weight of the items she has purchased, Mrs. Henderson offers to send someone to carry the bags home for Marguerite. The two women exchange friendly looks, and Mrs. Henderson asks to speak with Marguerite.