Part 1, 1906-1923, Chapters 7 & 8 Summary

Wladek, Florentyna and the Baron are still among prisoners in the Baron's castle. As Wladek is washing himself in a puddle of water, the Baron calls out to him. Wladek dutifully goes to the Baron, who for the first time notices that the boy had only one nipple. "'My foster mother used to say it was the mark of God the Father upon me,' he tells the Baron."

"'Stupid women. It is the mark of your own father,' the Baron replies."

The Baron tells Wladek that the war is going to last much longer than anticipated and that the Baron will not survive. In the spring of 1918, the Baron sends for Wladek. In the presence of two servants, the Baron gives a verbal last will and testament, leaving all power and possessions to Wladek. He gives the...