Chapters 1-5 Summary

Danny returns from the army to learn he has inherited two small houses from the viejo, his grandfather. Feeling the burden of home ownership, Danny buys and drinks almost a gallon of red wine, becomes drunk and disorderly and is arrested. As a veteran, he receives only thirty boring days in jail. Tito Ralph, the jailer, and Danny go out for more wine. Danny is reported escaped and avoids recapture. He encounters his old paisano (friend), Pilon and the two agree to share their liquor. Danny feels lonely and talks Pilon into sharing Danny's house, though Pilon hopes it will not harm their friendship.

Everything in the house is battered and rickety. Pilon is sure they will be happy, but Danny worries, wishing their roles were reversed. Danny has no money to turn on the water, but they butcher a stolen...