Upon arriving back at the Van Wagener's she discovered that her son had been sold into slavery in Alabama, through a series of illicit business dealings. It was New York law at the time that no slave could be transported beyond the state's boundaries. She was determined to retrieve him and went to confront her former mistress, Dumont. The woman was less than sympathetic to her plight.
" Ugh! a fine fuss to make about a little nigger! Why, haven't you as many of 'em left as you can see to, and take care of? A pity 'tis, the niggers are not all in Guinea!! Making such a halloo-balloo about the neighborhood; and all for a paltry nigger!!!' Isabella heard her through, and after a moment's hesitation, answered, in tones of deep determination'I'll have my child again.' 'Have your child again!' repeated her mistress her tones big with contempt, and scorning the absurd idea of her getting him. 'How can you get him? And what have you to support him with, if you could? Have you any money?' 'No,' answered Bell, 'I have no money, but God has enough, or what's better! And I'll have my child again.' These words were pronounced in the most slow, solemn, and determined measure and manner. And in speaking of it, she says, 'Oh my God! I know'd I'd have him agin. I was sure God would help me to get him. Why, I felt so tall within I felt as if the power of a nation was with me!'" (From: The Narrative of Sojourner Truth (1850) dictated by Sojourner Truth (ca.1797-1883); edited by Olive Gilbert.)
Isabella spent much time in prayer, fortifying herself for the struggle ahead, yet confident that her faith and inner fire would bolster her sagging spirits. By chance, Isabella learned of the Quakers, and was advised to plead with them for assistance in her mission. They gave her sustenance and lodging and directed her to submit a plea to the Grand Jury. She did so and a writ was completed for the apprehension of Gedney, the man who had abducted her son beyond the state's borders. However, the writ was mistakenly directed toward the culprit's brother.
