Silas became a drifter and survived by stealing. While attempting to steal a case of ham from a ship Silas was stopped by two sailors who smelled of beer and reminded him of his father. Silas broke one sailor’s neck and almost killed the second, but was stopped by police. Silas was sent to prison. Many years later, an earthquake destroyed the prison and Silas escaped. After wandering, Silas finally collapsed in hunger and exhaustion.