Chapter 7 Summary

Ellen is in awe of the beautiful house by the sea. For a few moments, the girls are able to forget their troubles as they wade in the chilly ocean. The girls giggle and laugh, and Annemarie points out Sweden to Ellen, as her Uncle Henrik had once pointed across the water and explained to Annemarie that the land visible from the shore is the country of Sweden.

When they return to the house, Mama's anxiety is evident. She wants to know if the girls encountered anyone on the beach, but they assure her that the only sign of life was the kitten Ellen picked up and brought home. Mama insists they stay in the house from now on, but as compensation, she promises them a nice supper. The girls, who have been used to eating nothing but potatoes for months, will get...