Chapter 9, 1939: February 3 Summary

On the roof of a building somewhere in Spain, the 19-year-old Lorenzo remembers hunting with his father. The gun he now has in his hands is rusty and nearly useless. He waits with his friend Miguel. They fire on the enemy until their ammo runs out, then head towards the river. They meet three female soldiers named Nuri, Maria and Dolores. Lorenzo is attracted to Dolores, a gawky girl dressed in trousers and a man's jacket.

At the riverbank, the five plot how to cross. The only bridge is probably mined. Finally, they decide to take their chances with the bridge. When they cross safely, Lorenzo and Dolores embrace.

The five camp on a hillside. Lorenzo pens a letter to his parents, telling them how much he loves Spain. "I will never forget my life here Papa, because it is here...