Summary

This chapter is told from the viewpoint of Perry Oliver, who is crashing a concert at the Bethunes' so he can hear the blind Negro play piano. Perry makes a point to speak to Mary Bethune and many other guests. He observes and judges Sharpe Bethune who actually comes over to visit with him during the party. At this time, Tom is no older than five or six, but is talented well beyond his years. As is everyone upon hearing Tom play, Perry is very impressed.

Two years pass and Perry Oliver with his young assistant, Seven, return to Georgia to meet with General Bethune about Tom. It is late when they arrive, so they decide to spend the night in town. The reader sees that Seven is highly prejudiced in his belief systems as he becomes quite agitated that one of the black...