Byron’s assertive father stirs up rebellion in the son. Wearing braces for the first six years of his life due to bow-legs, Byron walks to Sunday school and is beaten for not telling his parents. He learns to smoke and drink by age ten; commits vandalism and nearly dies. He runs away and his dad arranges to have him arrested. Byron quits school at 16 and his dad sets him up in business. Byron is successful, but alcohol consumes him. The first part ends with his dad’s death and Byron’s addiction having led to heartache for his family.