While Jim assumes Huck shares his secrets with him because he is enslaved and therefore not actually “human,” Huck surprises him by calling him a friend, emphasizing his youthful innocence. Miss Watson’s fear for Huck’s safety, while warranted, confuses Jim, who is powerless to stop his own suffering let alone protect others. In this moment, it almost seems like Miss Watson recognizes Jim as a capable human being, but only when it is convenient for her.