The Bascombs Summary

Sneaking through the woods, Francie hears the voices of white men. She sees the Bascomb brothers, Billy and Jack, being abusive to Prez and Perry. They are threatening to take the little boys to jail, and Perry's arm has been hurt, his shirt torn. Francie runs quickly to Auntie's house. When Auntie learns what has happened, she is devastated and frightened. Mama arrives and is also very upset, angry at Francie and worried about the little boys. Suddenly Mama realizes that they need to get home in case the little boys are there. The house is empty; Mama throws away the remainder of the cake that had been eaten by the Sheriff. Auntie and Francie are crying.

They hear the sounds of cars, men and Mr. Early's yelping dogs, which he claims are able to smell a "nigra." The men and...