The Unvanquished: The Corrected Text Chapter Summary & Analysis - Retreat: Chapters 1-2 Summary

Retreat: Chapters 1-2 Summary

As the War comes closer, John insists that Granny take Bayard to her sister's home in Memphis. Granny has the trunk of silver dug up by the Negro men and sets off with Bayard, Ringo and Joby, Ringo's grandfather. They pass through Jefferson, the nearby town, viewing Confederate soldiers, looking tired and worn, and meeting up with "Uncle Buck," a man who, having lost a poker game with his twin brother, Buddy, must stay at home while Buddy rides with John Sartoris. The twins are an unusual pair, owning a large plantation but living in a log cabin on the property, having given the manor house to their salves. Theirs is a philosophy more in tune with Indians, that is, the land does not belong to people; people belong to the land. As well, they have developed a plan for freeing their slaves, based upon work performed, and for helping...
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