Chapter 7, "The Caine" Summary

Willie's coding duties take his mind off his father's death. He attends another of the Admiral's parties and picnics with the nurses, gaining a rosy tan and more weight. He also writes many letters to May, who is enjoying college and receiving high grades. Keefer receives a letter from his dad who says Keefer's brother Tom is on the Caine, having been sent there from communications school. Roland Keefer tells Willie that his brother Tom is "queer as a three-dollar bill". Tom is his half-brother, a high-brow who writes short stories, plays, and magazine articles.

On September 1st, Willie is awakened from a drunken, sound sleep by Paynter from the Caine, now in Pearl but shoving off at 0800 for target towing duty. Willie packs his gear and stumbles out to the dump truck Paynter has to take...