How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
"Tim, did Sam say anything to you about going to the war?"
I didn't want to lie to Father, but I didn't want to give Sam away, either. "Well, he said he was, but I thought he was probably just boasting." (2.9-10)
Tim hates having to choose whether to lie to his dad or protect his brother. Let's be honest: that's a tough decision. What do you think about Tim's response to his dad? Does he lie here? Or is he telling the truth? Or is it something in between?
Quote #2
I stood there confused and mixed up inside. I didn't say anything.
"Are you going to tell?" Sam said again.
"Sam, please don't take it." I knew I was about to cry. "Please, Sam."
"I have to have it, Tim."
"Timmy," Betsy said. You don't want Sam to get killed, do you?"
"Please, Sam."
"Are you going to tell?" Sam said.
Then I couldn't hold back anymore and I began to cry. "No, I won't tell," I whispered. (2.78-85)
Sam has stolen their dad's gun, which is a serious problem. Now Tim has to lie to his dad if he asks where the gun is. And check out how upset he gets—why does this get to him so much? What's up with the tears?
Quote #3
The officer looked at Father, considering. Finally he said, "I don't believe you." He raised the sword. I gasped and the officer whipped the flat side of the blade across Father's face." (4.16)
The Rebels want Mr. Meeker's gun, and they just won't believe him that Sam has it. Doesn't it stink when you're telling the truth but no one will believe you? Well Mr. M ends up with a sword injury because of the whole thing. Watch out—looks like any suspicion of lying could mean paying a high price in colonial America.