Part 4, Chapter 42 Summary

After the Filipino citizenship bill fails, Rios, Lacson and Dozier begin to convert the CPFR chapters into the Communist Party. Jose wants the CPFR to affiliate with the American League for Peace and Democracy but Carlos is losing interest. He is busy working and caring for his sick brother. He reads to him every night and Macario tells him that he can become a writer.

As Macario's condition worsens, Carlos tries to find Amado and can't locate him. He finally gives Macario enough money to live on for two months, telling him that he is leaving for the north. "I was not running away from him because he was sick and helpless. I was running away from myself, because I was afraid myself. I was afraid of all that was despairing in that swamp of filth - that dark dungeon of...