Summary

The Afternoon – It is April 18, 1775. 15-year-old Adam Cooper and his father, Moses, have finished a long day’s work in the fields near the village of Lexington, but before Adam can return home, his father instructs him to fetch water for his mother, Sarah, reminding him sternly that wasted steps are like wasted thoughts – empty and ignorant. Adam dislikes how strict his father is. Adam’s younger brother, Levi, appears at the well and takes a drink of water with Adam. Adam’s mother is kinder, but just as strict, believing Adam wastes too much time, and should be studying the Bible.

Adam goes upstairs to see Granny, and the two discuss God and religion. Adam is something of an agnostic, but Granny passionately believes in God. Adam wonders how a rich, mean person like Isaiah Peterkin, a deacon, can get...