Tony
learns his catechism and prepares for his first communion, under the
direction of Father Byrnes. Tony hopes that when he takes communion all
his questions about the ways of God will be answered. He debates with
his friend Florence, who does not believe in God. The discussion
make them late for Father Byrnes's class. Florence is punished for
being late, but Tony is excused. The priest teaches them about sin and
hell, and gives them a vivid picture of what eternity means for those
who are damned.
Analysis
The
characterization of Florence is developed. As a boy who does not believe
in God, he acts as a foil for the highly religious Tony. (A foil is a
character who sets off another by contrast.) The seriousness of the
discussion between Tony and Florence is followed by Father Byrnes's
somber teaching, but the feisty irreverence shown by Bones and
Horse provides the reader with some welcome comic moments.
