The chapter opens with a series of negative messages from strangers offended by Ms. Narwin’s apparent treatment of Philip. Early that morning, Drs. Seymour and Doane discuss the situation. Dr. Seymour is worried about the possible impact the controversy could have on the school’s funding and the increasing pressure he is feeling to punish Ms. Narwin. Dr. Doane insists that he must support Ms. Narwin, however. Dr. Seymour ends the conversation by asking Dr. Doane to send Ms. Narwin’s personnel file over to his office.

As Philip prepares to go to school that morning after having served his suspension, he tells his parents that he is nervous about how other students may react to him. Mr. Malloy expresses surprise at this, since Philip previously told him that the other students dislike Ms. Narwin as well. Philip brushes off his father’s advice to treat the day like a race by getting a quick start. Philip has heard this story many times before and cuts his father off.

Philip walks to school that morning with Ken, who asks once again why Philip did not go out for the track team. When Ken asks if Philip’s refusal to try out is because of some anger toward the coach, Philip tells Ken that he cannot run track because of the low grade he received in Ms.