Part Two, Section 2 (to page 128) Summary and Analysis

Ernie communicates the greater sense of danger in the city relative to Jalco by noting how the landlady bars the doors of the patio at night. Each family within the small complex also locks the door of its adobe room. Ernie relates this danger to the visible presence of the military throughout the city.

A week after Ernie arrives in Tepic, Gustavo arrives. They learn that Gustavo has a job in the sugar mill north of the city. On Sundays, he walks to Tepic to visit the family and then returns to the mill the same day. Family conversations on these Sundays revolve around saving money, working, and reuniting with the family in Jalco. They also discuss the ongoing political developments.

Josy does not have regular work in Tepic, but rather earns money...