Chapters 9 through 11 Summary

In Chapter Nine, Jim expects to begin cutting trees for the cabin but the land surveyor arrives and Jonnie and Mr. Rutledge stop work to stake their claims. Jim won't be needed until the time comes to sign for the property and he uses the time as a reprieve from work. Something seems to be worrying Jonnie though he doesn't say what it is. Then Jim overhears Jonnie telling Mr. Rutledge that Jim can't write. Mr. Rutledge assures Jonnie that Jim can simply mark an "X" and that there are many people who are unable to write. Jim goes off by himself and tries to remember what he learned about writing his name as a young child. He is soon frustrated.

Later, Jim takes Daniel to set out traps and teaches the young boy the finer points of trapping, including how...