Summary

The scene opens years later at a graduation ceremony. Tip is graduating medical school, and Doyle, Teddy, and Kenya are attending. Both Tennessee and Father Sullivan have died. Father Sullivan had been right: Tennessee’s spleen was injured the night of the accident, a mortal injury. In the years between, both boys carried with them guilt: Teddy, for causing Father Sullivan’s death by suggesting he go to the hospital, and Tip, for causing Tennessee to jump in front of the car. In an effort to atone for their sins, both boys chose professions they wouldn’t have chosen otherwise. Teddy has entered politics, while Tip went to medical school.

Tip is recalling these events while on the stage, listening to the valedictorian’s speech. During the speech he comes to the conclusion that he does not want to be a doctor. Instead, he...