Henry James Alden Timeline and Summary

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• Overhearing a disturbing conversation between the baker and his wife, Henry and Jessie decide to run away from the bakery. Henry carries Benny part of the way.
• The kids walk for several nights, sleeping during the day so they won't be seen.
• After a storm, the children settle into a boxcar. Jessie wants to make it their home, but the final decision rests with Henry. He says yes.
• Henry goes into town to find a job and is immediately hired by Dr. Moore. He starts by mowing the grass.
• The kids settle into a new pattern where Henry works during the day while the other kids work at home. Henry buys food in town and brings it home for Jessie to cook.
• One night, Henry and Jessie hear an intruder outside their boxcar. Henry stands by the door with a broom as a weapon, but nothing comes of it.
• With the help of his sisters and brother, Henry builds a swimming pool.
• One day, Henry takes all of the Aldens to Dr. Moore's to pick cherries.
• Another day, at work, Dr. Moore gives Henry the day off so he can watch the races at Field Day.
• Watching the races, Henry decides to participate in the free-for-all. He wins. He meets Mr. Alden, who is his grandfather, but neither Henry nor Mr. Alden realizes it.
• One evening, when Violet falls ill, Henry goes to Dr. Moore for help. All of the Alden children move into the doctor's house while she recovers.
• Mr. Alden comes to stay at Dr. Moore's, but he doesn't tell Henry or the other kids his true identity. Eventually, Henry figures out who he is.
• Henry and the other kids go to live with Mr. Alden in his fancy mansion.