why did ms. thomas believe bud

She simply thinks that Bud is sincere. Ms. Thomas tells him they had a long conversation about him, which first makes him nervous that they are going to kick him out, but she continues that they’d like him to stay awhile. He grins broadly, and she says he will have to help out around the place and he will have to be very, very patient with Herman. Bud understands, though she adds that he really will have to be strong in spirit and body to deal with Herman. Finally, Miss Thomas holds his face firmly and gently in her hands just as Momma used to do and tells him that sometimes things will be hard and he will tour with the band and sometimes she cannot go, but he will be okay.