Oil! · Chapter
III explained
Bunny and his father drive through fog and treacherous mountain roads, facing delays from weather and a speed trap.
What happens
Bunny and his father drive through fog and treacherous mountain roads, facing delays from weather and a speed trap. Dad's meticulous nature and defiance of authority are highlighted, as is his past confrontation with Judge Larkey over speed laws. The chapter emphasizes Dad's control, the thrill of speed, and the adversarial relationship between motorists and law enforcement in 1912.
Themes in this chapter
Corruption and Power
Dad's contempt for speed traps and his ability to change laws reflect the power of wealthy individuals to challenge and reshape legal systems.
Idealism vs. Pragmatism
Dad's pragmatic approach to driving—using chains, slowing for traps—contrasts with his idealistic defiance of unjust laws.
Family and Morality
The father-son bond is central, with Dad teaching Bunny about dignity, order, and navigating a corrupt world.
Characters to notice
- Bunny Ross
The boy, observing and learning from his father's driving and defiance of authority.
- Dad Ross
The father, a meticulous and determined driver who challenges speed laws and has a history with Judge Larkey.
- J. Arnold Ross
Referenced as the oil operator who publicly objected to speed laws and later changed them.
- Ben Skutt
Mentioned as a 'lease-hound' waiting at the Imperial Hotel for Dad.
Key passages
“Dad’s quick eye noted it, and he slowed down; a fortunate thing, for the car began to slide, and almost touched the white wooden barrier that guarded the outer edge.”
Dad's sharp observation made him slow down just in time to prevent the car from sliding into the guardrail.
Highlights Dad's skill and attentiveness as a driver.
“He unfastened his cuffs and rolled up the sleeves—each motion precisely followed by the boy.”
Dad carefully rolled up his sleeves, and Bunny mimicked every movement.
Shows Bunny's admiration and imitation of his father.
“The newspapers had put that on the front page all over the state: 'Oil Operator Objects to Speed Law: J. Arnold Ross Says He Will Change It.'”
Newspapers across the state reported J. Arnold Ross's vow to change the speed law.
Illustrates Dad's public defiance and influence.