Chapter 18, "Down From the Mountain" Summary

Fall comes early to the mountain, announcing it won't be long before 'winter dying'. Little Tree describes fall as nature's grace time. It is a time to put things in order, to remember, and to regret things that weren't accomplished. They all wait for Mr. Wine to come back for his usually monthly, visit but he doesn't show up. One evening, a man and woman in gray clothing appear. They are highly conservative and nervous. Little Tree describes them as being like politicians. The woman suggests Little Tree leave the room, but Granpa says that he isn't excluded from any family affairs. The man talks about people's concern about Little Tree's education. Granpa assures him that Little Tree is getting a good education as Mr. Wine can confirm, despite his forgetfulness.

The woman seems little...