Paine, Thomas (1737–1809), American Revolutionary patriot, writer, and political theoretician, born in England.
panhandle a strip of land projecting like the handle of a pan. Here refers to the western extension of Oklahoma.
pauper any person who is extremely poor.
pellagra a chronic disease caused by a deficiency of nicotinic acid in the diet and characterized by gastrointestinal disturbances, skin eruptions, and mental disorders.
perplexity the condition of being perplexed; bewilderment; confusion.
Pilgrim's Progress a religious allegory by John Bunyan (1678).
pone cornbread in the form of small, oval loaves.
premium an additional amount paid or charged.
prodigal here refers to the wastrel son in biblical scripture who was welcomed back warmly on his homecoming in repentance (Luke 15:11-32).
proprietor one who owns and operates a business establishment.
Purty Boy Floyd infamous Depression-era bank robber; known for his kindness to poor people.
pustules small elevations of the skin containing pus.
putrescence the state or condition of something that is decomposing or rotting.
quarantine any isolation or restriction on travel or passage imposed to keep contagious diseases, insect pests, and so on from spreading.
rakishly dashingly; jauntily.
red agitators political radicals or revolutionaries, especially applied to Communists, who stir up people in support of a cause.
repel to drive or force back; hold or ward off.
