The story begins with the narrator's move from rural Chaguanas to Port of Spain. The young narrator takes his first city bus ride, which leads to many humorous situations, much to his mother's frustration. On Miguel Street, the narrator gets lost while buying bread and butter, leading to an encounter with Titus Hoyt.

Titus Hoyt, a man of education and intelligence, engages the young narrator with mathematical challenges and encourages his academic success. His passion for teaching becomes evident as he imparts his knowledge to other children in the neighborhood as well.

Then, Titus Hoyt expands his role by intervening in more personal matters. He begins offering medical advice and gains Red Cross training, surprising the neighborhood children with his first-aid knowledge. His unconventional views, especially about faith and belief, set him apart, and he often shares these musings with the community.

Titus Hoyt thought about all sorts of things, and he thought dangerous things sometimes.

Hat said, ‘I don’t think Titus Hoyt like God, you know.’

Titus Hoyt would say, ‘The thing that really matter is faith. Look, I believe that if I pull out this bicycle-lamp from my pocket here, and set it up somewhere, and really really believe in it and pray to it, what I pray for go come. That is what I believe.’

Titus Hoyt's dedication to teaching leads him to form the Miguel Street Literary and Social Youth Club; ultimately the club dissolves after its focus shifts from academics to film discussion. Undeterred, Titus Hoyt continues teaching and eventually starts a school dedicated to helping students prepare for the Cambridge School Certificate. 

This chapter paints a vivid portrait of Titus Hoyt, a unique character who plays the role of mentor, philosopher, and educator in the lives of the narrator and the Miguel Street community. While he does make efforts to educate the children of Miguel Street and improve their lives, he also displays selfish tendencies. He seeks acknowledgment as an educator and pursues fame, sometimes exploiting the children to write letters to newspapers boasting about his academic achievements.