Leper's language becomes more and more erratic and strange and he openly swears at Gene, who becomes increasingly agitated. I always knew that only I never admitted it. It's you we happen to be talking about now. Chapter 10, pg. 137 Leper becomes accusatory, and Gene, already inflamed, rushes forth and attacks Leper, kicking his chair out from beneath him.
Leper lies there, crying and laughing on the floor.
Just as something had consumed Gene and driven him to a point of violence to cause Finny's fall, so does his rage cause him to attack Leper. Leper, giggling, asks that he stay for lunch which he grudgingly agrees to do. Gene eats a great deal at lunch during which he wins back Mrs. Lepellier's favor by showing good manners. Afterwards, Gene and Leper take a walk together outside. Gene is confident that the outdoor weather will keep Leper calm and at peace, since it always had before.