Chapter 6 Summary

In this chapter, Akira leaves to attend school in Japan. This is in the fall. The summer before, he acts so nationalistic that Christopher feels rather weary of him. However, before long, he comes to miss him. In spite of this, it is a rather peaceful season, full of empty afternoons. Amongst these eventless days, he remembers a few events, which at the time seemed inconsequential, but more important retrospectively.

One afternoon, Uncle Philip comes over for one of his mother's Saturday morning campaign meetings. He stays for lunch and then proposes that they all go to the racetracks. Christopher's father begs off on account of work, but encourages Christopher's mother to take Christopher and go. Christopher's mother agrees, upon which all three adults look at Christopher to make the decision. If he acquiesces, then the outing would happen. If he doesn't want...