Chapter Thirteen Summary

Jason Wilder is a sadistic man, driven by a need for power beyond normalcy. He has staged the firing of Eugene as much for his personal sense of vindictive power as to insinuate himself into the college's board of directors even more firmly, in hopes of selling off the lands and enriching himself in the process. Eugene is ill-prepared to face off against Wilder as is required when Eugene is dragged, unexpectedly, into a board meeting whereupon he finds himself the subject of a termination hearing. Eugene is terrified, but plays calmly unafraid, not wanting to show fear. He eloquently states that while he may not always agree with Wilder's political viewpoints as aired vociferously by Wilder non-stop across all forms of media, Eugene respects Wilder's right to say whatever he pleases in a free society. Wilder sidesteps the compliment and...