Jack Burns
The protagonist of the novel, Burns is a cowboy who refuses to be affected by the modern society. He is a temporary worker, not unlike the cowboys of old. When his friend is sent to prison, he has to get captured to help his escape but ends up having to go on the run from the law.
Paul Bondi
He is a philosophical anarchist who has refused to register for the draft and is hence sent to the prison. When Burns gets caught to help him escape, he refuses to go.
Jerry
She is Blondi's wife and he is forced to leave her when he has to go to prison. Burns stops by when first coming to town and while on a run from the law he stops briefly to meet her.
Seth
He is Blondi's son and is left with his mother when he goes to prison. He is met by Burns who takes him to the store.