Why is Mary allowed to work in the secret garden? Mr. Craven wants her to make his wife's garden come alive again because he is sorry that he has allowed it to fall apart.

Mr. Craven gives Mary permission to take any bit of earth she wants for a garden, and he encourages her to make it come alive.

Mrs. Sowerby tells Mr. Craven that Mary should be permitted to work in the secret garden.

Mr. Craven knows that Mary and Dickon will keep the secret garden a secret.