A young boy named Solomon Henry, the son of former slaves, runs away to Walnut Grove, and soon takes refuge at the Ingalls. Charles is able to get the truth from Solomon: He is tired of everyone treating him "different" because he is black (they called him "negro" which that term is not polite now). Charles tells him he has much to be proud of and convinces him to return home, but not until after Solomon teaches the people of Walnut Grove a few lessons of his own.