He readily believes that Esperanza and Estevan would want to abandon their child because of their supposed Indian background, and even considers Turtle as little more than chattel, calling her 'it.' The first source of contention is easily resolved, partially because of the contempt that Armitead shows for his clients. Kingsolver creates tension over two major points during the visit to Armistead's office: the first source of tension is whether the entire ruse will work, while the second is whether Esperanza will relinquish her custody' over Turtle or attempt to take Turtle for herself. This chapter proves a final resolution to the question of Turtle's custody, but does so in a way that also allows for Esperanza to resolve her feelings over Turtle, and by extension, Ismene. Cleary could know what they actually did.

In some way, Taylor wishes that years later Mr. Everyone signs the form transferring guardianship of Turtle over to Taylor.

This is the only time in which Taylor believes she might lose Turtle, for if Esperanza had not let go of her, she would have let her have the girl. Taylor wonders which mother he means, for there are so many possibilities, but is touched to think that he might mean Taylor. Estevan tells Turtle that she must be a good girl, strong like her mother. Esperanza is nearly at tears, and tells Armistead that she loves Turtle, but cannot take care of her. Although nobody has any identification, it seems enough that Taylor has a Social Security card. Armistead that there was no birth certificate, for 'it' was born on tribal lands. Armistead says that this is permanent: after six months, the old birth certificate will be destroyed and the new one will be permanent. Estevan and Esperanza discuss the various forms to arrange for transfer of legal authority. He has a complicated hearing aid that his secretary, Mrs. Jonas Wilford Armistead is a tall, white-haired man who seems more comfortable with the notarizing job than the public.

Chapter Sixteen: Soundness of Mind and Freedom of Will:

The bean trees book