Chapter 20 Summary

The social elite, led by Butler, continues to advocate dynamiting levees downstream of New Orleans to relieve pressure on the city's levee system. City attorneys issue a legal opinion supporting the dynamiting. Various city and state officials continue to meet to resolve issues and settle disputes. The outcomes are all in favor of dynamiting.

Citizens of St. Bernard and Plaquemines Parishes meet and officially demand full compensation in the event of intentional levee destruction. The citizens appoint a committee, which travels to New Orleans and obtains somewhat favorable terms for reimbursement. After a final round of debates, Governor Simpson signs the order. The levee will be dynamited in three days. Local business interests almost immediately rebound.

One night, groups of armed St. Bernard Parish men visit numerous prominent bankers, who have guaranteed reimbursement, in New Orleans. They intend to ensure the promises are...