Octavian's Character and Private Goring- Pox Party (p. 240-308)

Prior to this place in the novel, Octavian has escaped Mr. Gitney. Mr. Gitney has made aware in the newspaper a reward for the return of Octavian as well as a strong description of Octavian's character and skills.
The next part of the story is told from various letters that tell of the strange negroe boy. The common characteristics given to him are that he doesn't speak (stupefied), covered in mud yet wearing fancy dress, and void of emotion. However he joins the army initially from his violin skill and eventually is befriended by Private Evidence Goring. Goring first shows kindness and sympathy for Octavian when the Private tells the him (page 252) that he "would sleep by the flap because hi is ill and the Water will com in & wet him." Goring also tries to understand the mannerisms and behavior of Octavian saying that he feared "he is fled from some tyrant Master" (page 254). And continues saying "He must have suffered from some great Wrong. I worry at what secret Ill he hides" (page 257). Goring is enlightened of Octavian's views on life to which Octavian doesn't seek pleasure and has a more utility view of the heart rather than emotions or feelings, as he was taught in his experimental youth.
Throughout this interaction of Octavian and his time in the army with Goring, the war continues. There are various accounts where Octavian, though he is seen to be void of emotion aside from suffering, proves himself a valiant soldier. He guides Goring through the Ford through the strong tide and again when Octavian "presented a Target so they would not fire upon John" (page 276). But as Goring states, Octavian does this as wishing to die (take the bullet) rather than as an act of heroism.
Goring notices another thing in Octavian's character, seeing that he when active is anger. He "builds for Freedom -- & this is his grim & unsmiling Joy" (page 288).
Also to note, "And in the End of Speech, we found Companionship at last" (page 298). This is a strong indicator that finally Goring understands that as Octavian suffers sorrow, he shows it with his silence.
In the end it is sad to find that Goring eventually brings Octavian to Mr. Turner, especially since Goring had the best intentions for Octavian and regarded him so well.