Forrest and Phil, part of a circus crew, find themselves in a precarious situation as Phil tries to evade his pursuers with a slow-moving horse. He eventually devises a plan to escape by using a pole wagon as a cover, managing to elude the men chasing him. Despite his effective escape, Phil faces the dilemma of being in conspicuous circus attire and lacking funds, complicated by the loss of his money pouch. Determined to return to his circus and warn Mr. Sparling of potential dangers, Phil improvises a new outfit from found garments and decides to journey on foot to Corinto, a decision spurred by both necessity and a keen sense of duty.

Throughout his journey, Phil encounters various challenges, including physical exhaustion, hunger, and the need to avoid further detection. His travels take him through rural areas and alongside railroad tracks, where he occasionally interacts with locals and tramps with caution and optimism. Despite the hardships, Phil’s resolve remains unbroken, driven by a mission to ensure the safety of his circus family. His journey is marked by moments of vulnerability, resourcefulness, and the kindness of strangers, albeit sparse and guarded.

This chapter vividly portrays Phil’s quick thinking, physical endurance, and moral compass as he navigates through unfamiliar territories, all while trying to maintain a low profile. His determination to overcome obstacles and reach Corinto to deliver a critical warning underscores his loyalty and bravery. The narrative is punctuated by Phil’s reflections on his situation, revealing a character who, despite youth, possesses a mature understanding of responsibility and the complexities of his itinerant life. Each step of his journey is a testament to his resilience and unwavering commitment to his circus community.