How does the narrator feel about jumping from the tree? What relationship does this establish?

The narrative shifts back 15 years, to Gene's days with Phineas. It is their first attempt to jump off the huge tree into the river,a daunting and somewhat dangerous feat that is usually reserved for senior boys.Phineas, being the daredevil, goes first and Gene is the only one from the small party that he is able to persuade to follow him. This shows Gene to be the follower in the relationship, a position he constantly struggles to overcome.