Summary

In the section “Closing In,” Todd begins the narration. He is with the mayor at a house belonging to a family attacked and killed by the Spackle. The Spackle have been sneak attacking the soldiers and people for the last eight days. At least four people in this household are dead. Todd is sickened by the sight, especially by a soldier who has lost his leg. Mayor talks to the soldier in order to try to determine what the soldier saw before the soldier dies. Riding back from the terrible scene, the Mayor hears noise and realizes that he and Todd are surrounded by Spackle.

Meanwhile, in Viola’s section of narration, Mistress Coyle apologizes to her for sending the bomb with her to meet with the Mayor. She admits that she made the wrong decision. Even though Viola is angry...