Chapter 12 Summary

Mattie and her grandfather walk back toward Philadelphia for about an hour but eventually Grandfather Cook becomes feverish and ill and must rest. They sit beneath a tree and Grandfather Cook quickly falls asleep. Mattie looks around and sees a distant stand of willow trees. Realizing that willow trees probably indicate water, Mattie walks to the trees and locates a stream. She washes, drinks, and fills a canteen. She then finds some wild raspberries and picks them all. She returns to her grandfather and gives him water and berries. She inspects his eyes and is relieved to find them clear - her grandfather does not have yellow fever but simply a "summer grippe." They spend the night under the tree.

Chapter 12 Analysis

This chapter details Mattie's attempt to return to Philadelphia. Her grandfather's illness, however, prevents him from making the journey. Mattie is...