Chapter 5, "A Unique History" Summary

Vandyck informs his readers not to expect an adventure story. His account is an academic cultural study. Additionally, the men had no adventures, as "there was nothing to fight." (pg. 49) The only beasts in the country are cats. Vandyck explains that through a careful breeding process, the women have achieved a race of cats that does not meow and only attacks vermin, not birds. Noting their interest in birds, Terry asks if they wear feathers on their hats. The women are unfamiliar with the concept of dressing decoratively and cannot comprehend why women in the outside world dress any differently than men.

The women question them intently about the outside world. "'I wish I could represent the kind, quiet, steady, ingenious way they questioned us. [...] But they were bent on understanding our kind of civilization...