Chapter 27

Summary

Part 1

Aaron was a kind, handsome, and straightforward boy. In contrast, Caleb, who looked like Adam, had watchful eyes and strange ways. The twins were hunting rabbits with bows and arrows with feathers taped to their heads. When Aaron shot a rabbit, Cal started bargaining with his brother about who would get credit for it. He told Aaron they should share the credit since it was his arrow that Aaron had shot with. Aaron was confused by CalÂ’s argument and did not agree with the bargain. In truth, Aaron was often puzzled by his brother, for Cal tried to imply things and did not make himself clear.

Caleb looked at the land and told Aaron that one day their father would die and the land would be theirs. Aaron did not seem interested. Caleb then asked Aaron where he thought their mother was. Aaron said she was in heaven, repeating the story that Adam had told him. Cal said he heard men at the store in town talking about her, saying she was in Salinas, but Aaron did not believe this. When Cal insisted she was alive, Aaron became very upset, jumping on Cal in anger. Suddenly, Caleb, showing signs of his motherÂ’s manipulation, realized that he had a tool to use against his brother.

When it started to rain, the boys ran. After getting soaked, they slowed to a walk and laughed at their wetness.

Part 2

When they got to their house, the twins saw that they had visitors. Once inside, they heard the voices of a woman and a girl. Since they were rarely around females, both Aaron and Cal were excited. They changed clothes and went shyly to the living room, where they were introduced to Mr. and Mrs. Bacon and Abra. He was the county supervisor. When they mentioned leaving, Adam insisted they stay for tea.

Part 3

Mr. Bacon asked Adam why he did not work his land. Adam explained that he had inherited money from his father and could afford not to farm his land. Mr. Bacon suggested that Adam rent his farm out and move to the city, where he could send his sons to public school. Adam felt like Mr. Bacon was giving unwanted advice and let his mind wander. He thought about his brother Charles and decided to take his sons to visit him. When the Bacons asked him what he was thinking, he told them he was thinking of his brother whom he had not contacted for years. Mr. and Mrs. Bacon looked at each other as if Adam were disturbed and prepared to leave.

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