Summary

As Chapter Nineteen begins, Charlie continues his training with Mr. Redmond, steadily becoming stronger and faster. Meanwhile, wars between the gangs in Richmond and Fitzroy are heating up, with the sound of gunfire almost constantly in the air. Charlie continues running through town, enjoying his freedom.

One night, Charlie’s conscience troubles him and he decides to tell Ma the truth about what he has been doing. He is surprised when she tells him she has known all along, the narrative not referencing how she knew. Meanwhile, Charlie is even more surprised when she invites him to dance.

As the day of the race at Ballarat gets closer, Charlie and Alice pay a visit to Nostrils, still in the hospital. Charlie is surprised at how pretty Alice looks, how she seems to enjoy being with him, and how well she lies...