Chapters 20 and 21 Summary

Registration for the third draft begins on September 12th. President Wilson wants thirteen million men between eighteen and forty-five. Elmer Ren had already enlisted and it was likely that even Traft couldn't avoid it this time. Charlie's last letter had ended with fifteen stars and Hattie knew that meant that he had lost fifteen more friends. Rooster Jim arrived looking more serious than usual, and at first Hattie thought there was a problem with Perilee or the kids, but Rooster Jim had come to talk to her. He brought news from Mr. Ebgard, who wanted her to know right away that Traft had filed to contest her claim. He made the claim that Hattie hadn't met the age requirements. The next day Hattie rides in to Ebgard's office and answers the questions put to her by Mr. Ebgard. He asked her...