Book I, Chapters 3-4 Summary

The holidays approach and everyone makes plans for Christmas vacation. Because of the expense to heat the college during the winter months, the school is closed through January and February. All the students have plans except for Richard, who does not want to go home and is completely broke. A referral service directs Richard to a housing arrangement he will be able to afford, even with his small work study paycheck. The place is a warehouse devoted to a mandolin business, operated by an old hippie. Richard accepts the arrangement, which is free, except he will be expected to work for the hippie carving and cleaning.

The warehouse turns out to be a disaster. It is unheated, except for the hippie's room. There is a large hole in the roof and no heaters. Richard spends every night...