The Iron Heel

Avis and Ernest move to Washington, and Dr. Cunningham stays behind in San Francisco, having found pleasure and research value in working odd jobs as a bartender, watchman, potato seller, and cannery assembler. One day, Cunningham helps Mr. Wickson into a cab and asks for a tip. Wickson is shocked when he recognizes him and asks how he may help the former professor. Cunningham asks for his home and stocks back and then asks Wickson if he is happy. Wickson angrily drives away without a response. 

In Washington, the Everhards are at first surprised that no obstacles prevent Ernest and his comrades from taking their positions in Congress. However, the Grangers elected in the other states face accusations of election fraud and prolonged court trials that bar them from their seats. In California, the Oligarchy hires provocateurs to agitate the farmers into violent revolt, fueling them with alcohol and disguising themselves among the mobs. The Oligarchy sends in soldiers; murders 11,000 men, women, and children; and takes over the California government. 

Each Granger state encounters similar violence, and the militia law of 1903 is enacted to draft men from other states to fight against their comrades. Men who refuse to serve are executed.