Chapter 3 Summary

Wondering how a young boy can find occasions for sin amidst such desolation, Fr. Cheroki hears Francis' lengthy confession of offenses towards the pilgrim. The presence of the Holy Sacrament obliges Cheroki to stand or kneel, inflaming his arthritis. Francis can never find the right words for his motives and the priest's sarcasm does not help. When the subject turns to Francis' belief his finds have proven his vocation, Cheroki declares Francis has not prepared for this confession, withholds absolution, and orders him to gather his things and return to the monastery. Cheroki takes up the Sacrament and rides to the next novice's outpost, leaving Francis agreeing he has been acting addled. As he packs, a supply caravan arrives, led by Brother Fingo, the cook's helper, who is the ugliest man alive but a good sport.

Like fellow Minnesotans, Fingo suffers baldness and...