P. 22, Scene 19 (1898) At the top of the hill . . .
Benjy's memory of being carried up the hill by Versh in Scene 18 reminds him of the time when Versh carried him up the hill after the children played in the branch. In this scene, note that Benjy is still being called Maury, which again would tend to confuse the reader on the first reading.
Jason's persistent habit of keeping his hands in his pockets causes him to fall down. This characteristic, as noted in Scene 17, becomes more dominant as the novel progresses. Likewise, his telling on Caddy and Quentin suggests a certain offensive aspect of his nature.
Benjy's ability to sense death is depicted; he instinctively knows that someone is going to die. At every death in the novel, Benjy has certain knowledge of it and moans.
Dilsey's character is further developed in this section. She will ultimately emerge as the one, strong, admirable character in the novel. She is the only person in the Compson household who can accomplish things without creating more disorder than originally prevailed. Hers is a great faith and reliance upon the goodness of the "Lawd" and a quiet love and acceptance of all the Lord's creatures. Her love extends even to Benjy, as she is able to sense what is wrong with him and to minister to his needs without upsetting him. This ability is in direct contrast to Mrs. Compson, who causes Benjy to start moaning and bellowing every time she comes near him.
