Chapters 7-9 Summary

Chapter 7 opens with Ray at the Fair Play Hotel, where he has taken a room and is sending a message to his father to wire two hundred fifty dollars. He is assisted by Webster Spooner, a Negro boy who works for the hotel, as well as for himself in a variety of odd jobs around town. When his father does not respond to his telegram for money, Ray is forced to use some of Reo's money to satisfy Ruth, the manager, who is demanding payment for the room, following three days of lodging. Ray then enlists Spooner to visit the police station and inquire about the location of the Dupree farm. While waiting for the information, Ray returns to Nel Symes's church to see about Reo.

Reo is still ill but well enough to receive his remaining money from Ray and...