The campus of Devon School retains a summer look, despite the fall season beginning.
The summer session, filled with a few boys and lax rules, is over, and the traditional, more disciplined winter session starts.
Masters return, and the chapel service marks the beginning of the 163rd winter session.
The absence of maids for the duration of the war is mentioned.
The Continuity and Change at Devon
The school emphasizes continuity in its traditions, although the protagonist feels this is false.
Reflections on how Devon changed over the summer without the usual rules and traditions.
The sermon at chapel suggests that breaking the rules leads to being broken by them, which resonates with the protagonist.
The Dynamics of Student Leadership
The protagonist notes the change from the carefree summer to the structured winter term.
Students like Brinker Hadley assume roles of leadership, reflecting the return to normalcy.
The protagonist shares a room with Finny, while Brinker sets up his headquarters in Leper's old room.
Memories and Reflections
The protagonist reflects on a memory of Phineas (Finny) balancing on a canoe, embodying the carefree spirit of summer.
This memory contrasts with the present, as the protagonist heads to the crew house for his new role.
Conflict with Quackenbush
The protagonist takes on the role of assistant senior crew manager, a non-prestigious position.
An altercation occurs with Quackenbush, the crew manager, highlighting tensions and misunderstandings.
The protagonist's reaction is fueled by a deep-seated sense of defending Finny and himself.
Encounter with Mr. Ludsberry
Mr. Ludsberry reprimands the protagonist for summer misbehavior like gaming and having an icebox in the dorm.
A phone call from Finny interrupts this reprimand, bringing news that alters the protagonist's perspective.
The Call from Finny
Finny calls the protagonist, revealing that Finny will not return to Devon immediately.
Finny asks the protagonist to participate in sports on his behalf, a request that deeply affects the protagonist.
Themes Explored
The tension between past carefree days and current responsibilities.
The protagonist's internal conflict about loyalty to Finny and his own desires.
The idea of taking on responsibilities for others, as symbolized by Finny's request to play sports.
Conclusion
The chapter concludes with Finny's influence over the protagonist reaffirmed, as he agrees to fulfill Finny's wishes.
The protagonist's internal struggle and his loyalty to Finny are central themes, setting up future developments in their relationship and personal growth.