We have changed our privacy policy. In addition, we use cookies on our website for various purposes. By continuing on our website, you consent to our use of cookies. You can learn about our practices by reading our privacy policy.

War Horse Chapter 20 Summary

How It All Goes Down

  • Joey's not quite sure what's going on at the beginning of this chapter as a cup is passed around, and the men all clink coins into it.
  • They groom Joey until he gleams and lead him off to auction. (Side note: Um, if they don't want him to be sold, shouldn't they have made him look as raggedy as possible?)
  • Sergeant Thunder engages in a bidding war with Monsieur Cirac, the so-called "butcher from Cambrai" (20.10).
  • Yep, we told you. Joey's not going to make it to the end of this one. Good thing we have one tissue left—
  • Wait a second! Just as the auction is about to end, with Cirac making the final bid of twenty-seven English pounds, an old man stands up and makes the highest bid. It's Emilie's Grandpapa!
  • The hammer falls, and Joey is sold.