Carmen wakes in a hospital room to find a young red-haired nurse holding her hand and speaking to her. The nurse reassures her not to “fuss,” explaining that Carmen has a serious leg injury and lost a great deal of blood, but that she will recover. She adds that Carmen has been unconscious for three days and is fortunate compared to many others injured in the disaster. The nurse also tells her that much of the waterfront has been destroyed by the molasses flood.

As Carmen’s thoughts become clearer, she immediately asks about Tony, but before the nurse can answer, she is called away. Soon, however, the Grasso family, including Tony, rushes into the room—“A stampede of little footsteps clatter[ing] across the tile floor” (55).

Because of her leg injury, Carmen remains in the hospital for a week after waking. She is visited by the Grasso family, Mr. Lawrence, and Mrs. Ortelli. One day, Mr. Pallo brings Rosie to her window. The horse survived the flood, though the molasses destroyed the stable and much of the surrounding neighborhood. Seeing Rosie makes Carmen cry—partly out of relief and affection, but also from the reminder that she is expected to return to Italy and may never ride Rosie again.