CHAPTER 9

Summary

The people of Jenkinsville are apprehensive because Anton has been reported missing. Members of the FBI came into the BergenÂ’s store to questions PattyÂ’s father. PattyÂ’s father told the FBI that he had a recollection of Anton but he did not remember too much about him. When Sister Parker looked at the picture, she remembered that Anton was the boy who had been talking with Patty. The FBI began questioning Patty and she got very nervous and started to cry. PattyÂ’s father scolded the FBI telling them that they had made Patty nervous and upset. Patty told the FBI what she remembered about her conversation with Anton. However, instead of telling them that Anton had purchased the pin, she told them he purchased a straw hat like the rest of the prisoners.

Charlene Madlee, a reporter for the Commercial Appeal appeared looking for the Sheriff. Patty offered to show her to the SheriffÂ’s office. Patty asked Charlene how she became a reporter; they began discussing their shared love for words.

They arrive to the prison camp and Charlene invites Patty to come in with her and act as a reporter. Patty and Charlene took notes as Charlene interviewed Major Wroper. After talking with the Major they proceeded to the infirmary and questioned Captain Robinson. He reported that he did not think Anton was escaping to cause any trouble; he merely wanted his freedom. Captain Robinson noted that most prisoners are former members of the S.S. and are arrogant and belligerent men; he said that AntonÂ’s personality did not match that of the other prisoners.

Notes

Jenkinsville is now buzzing with the news about AntonÂ’s escape. The FBI questions Harry about the prisoners that had been in his store. Sister Parker mentions PattyÂ’s talk with Anton and the agents suspiciously question Patty. Patty only tells the FBI half-truths before bursting into tears.

In this chapter, Patty befriends Charlene Madlee, the reporter for the Memphis Commercial Appeal. Charlene gives off a genuine, friendly vibe and we know that she will be a good friend and mentor to Patty.

When Charlene interviews a doctor who had treated Anton, he says that he is not a Nazi, a saboteur or a spy. Patty remembers how the doctor described Anton as a decent man; her internal conflict over sheltering Anton begins to be resolved.

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