Scout and Jem view Tom Robinson's trial from the balcony, sitting with Reverend Sykes and other black people. Eventually Calpurnia comes to collect them, appalled that they have listened to such things that are so unsuitable for children. However, Atticus tells her they might as well come back for the verdict since they have heard everything else already. After supper, they hurry back to the courtroom to find that Reverend Sykes has saved their places. He fills them in on what happened when Judge Taylor dismissed the jury, and he admits the judge seemed to be "leanin' a little to our side." Jem launches into an explanation of how convincing Atticus's defense of Tom Robinson had been.
The jury remains out for hours. Scout can't stay awake; she takes a short nap against Reverend Sykes's shoulder. When the jury returns, she senses it is bad news for Tom Robinson because none of the jurors will look at him. After the judge reads the guilty verdict, Atticus exits, and Scout watches his head from above as he passes down the middle of the courtroom. She is so intent on watching "Atticus's lonely walk down the aisle" that she doesn't realize what those around her are doing.
She feels someone punching her, and Reverend Sykes gets her attention. He tells her to stand up because her father is passing by. Then she realizes that all the black people in the balcony are standing as a way of paying respect to Atticus. Although the verdict didn't go their way, they all appreciate how hard Atticus fought for justice. Reverend Sykes wants Scout to know that her father deserves the highest respect and honor everyone can give him. Even his daughter should stand to show her regard for such a great man.
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