Part 2, 1923-1928, Chapters 12-14 Summary

In Chapter 12, William finds out that Matthew has been sexually active since the previous summer. William's first sexual experience is with his tutor's wife, who seduces him into a week-long fling.

William wins a prestigious mathematics award and is invited to celebrate with Matthew's family in New York. William notices a silver band worn by their waiter. It is the first chance meeting of William Kane and Abel Rosnovski.

The chance meeting with William gives Abel something to think about in Chapter 13. Abel decides he wants to be an equal to the Williams of the world.

George is still collecting girls so Abel spends his nights studying English. He works his way up at the Plaza Hotel, becoming a waiter in the Oaks Room where the richest families dine. Abel studies them to learn what makes them...