Chapter 21: The Parting begins on a somber note as word spreads through the household that the mistress’s health has declined. Her doctors advise a move to a milder climate, and this decision marks the beginning of a heartfelt farewell for everyone at the estate. For years, the place had been a home filled with warmth, routine, and understanding—not only for the family but also for the horses under their care. The news hits hard. What had been a peaceful and loving environment begins to unravel. The servants whisper with sadness, and the once lively stable grows quiet. Black Beauty senses the unease in the humans and in his fellow horses, especially Ginger and Merrylegs, who know that life is about to change. Nothing remains untouched by the weight of the mistress’s departure—not even the gentle brushing of coats feels the same anymore.

As preparations begin, the master announces that he will close the house entirely and sell the horses. Miss Jessie and little Flora leave first, heading off with their governess and waving tearful goodbyes. Their departure feels final, and even Merrylegs appears subdued, no longer trotting with the same playful energy. He is to be given to the local vicar under one condition—that when his time comes, he will not be sold again but put down gently. The master’s care in arranging Merrylegs’ future reflects his deep concern for the well-being of the animals that had served his family so faithfully. Joe, the young stable hand, is entrusted with his care, a task he accepts with pride and quiet determination. Meanwhile, John, the dependable coachman, is offered a fresh path—an opportunity to work with young horses and train them with the same kindness he’s always shown.

Black Beauty and Ginger are sold together to the Earl of W—-, a man of stature who is known for maintaining a fine stable. The master, though heavy-hearted, believes this is the best future he can offer them. Beauty takes comfort in the fact that he and Ginger will not be separated, at least not yet. Though the setting will be new, the familiar presence of his companion offers some reassurance. As the days dwindle, the estate prepares for the final departure. The servants, lined up by the carriage, say their goodbyes with hushed voices and misty eyes. The mistress, pale and bundled in layers, clings gently to her husband’s arm. She does not speak much, but her quiet nods and the gentle touch she gives to Black Beauty’s nose speak volumes.

John’s farewell is the most moving. Unable to voice the weight of his feelings, he remains silent, pressing a hand to Beauty’s neck and nodding to Ginger. His silence carries more than words ever could—years of care, trust, and unspoken affection. The carriage pulls away slowly, leaving behind not just a house, but a chapter full of shared history. For Beauty, the stable will never feel quite the same again. The comfort of routine is replaced by uncertainty. The human voices he had come to trust are gone, and a new life awaits. The field looks no different, the stalls remain in place, but everything feels altered by absence.

This chapter captures more than just physical separation—it captures emotional departure. It shows how deeply animals and humans can bond, how farewells between them are felt even in silence. The gentle way Merrylegs is provided for, the effort made to keep Beauty and Ginger together, and the dignified goodbye between John and his horses all speak to the depth of care that defined this household. It is not grief marked by dramatic scenes, but one shaped by respect and genuine affection. The quiet tears, the firm handshakes, the last soft brushes—they each reflect a world where loyalty mattered. Though change is inevitable, the manner in which one parts leaves a lasting impression. For Black Beauty, this moment of loss becomes a memory of grace and gratitude, even as the road ahead remains unknown.