Again readers witness the triangulation of racism and sexism ruining the lives of the characters in the novel. Because Mr. Hines believes that Milly’s lover is black (the fact that he claims to be Mexican links him to Juana and the history of Joanna’s family), he becomes hysterical over the perceived act of racial
and sexual transgression that he believes has taken place. This empties him of any sympathy or love for his daughter or grandchild.