Chapter 3 Summary

Buck becomes increasingly cunning in his behavior. He avoids fights, but his hatred for Spitz increases as the dog continues to goad him. Spitz recognizes Buck as a real threat to his leadership and takes every opportunity to initiate a fight.

After a particularly hard day on the trail, Buck digs his sleep hole before Francois has doled out the food ration. He doesn't want to leave the warmth of the nest to get the food when it finally appears, but he must obey his hunger. When he returns he finds Spitz in his hole. While he has avoided fighting the dog up to this point, this latest affront prompts Buck to attack Spitz furiously, surprising both the husky and Francois, who encourages Buck to make a stand.

In the middle of their fight, the entire team is attacked by a pack of...