Part 2, pages 177-200 Summary

Part 2, pages 177-200

Jick and Ray watch the rodeo from the fence by the corral. The announcing booth is just above them with Tollie Zane announcing over his new system while the newspaper editor serves as scorekeeper. The arrival of timekeeper Velma Simms evokes many whispers when she climbs the tower ladder in her tight pants.

The rodeo events begin. Bareback riding and steer wrestling are followed by the calf roping, which Alec wins to the applause of the crowd. The bronco riding follows. When Dode Withrow enters the ring, everyone is surprised to see him there considering his age and drunken condition. Dode manages a spectacular ride but, as the whistle blows, Dode falls to the ground and does not move. Jick is immediately off the fence running to Dode and soon the community is in action as...