Chapter 10 Summary

During the cold months of February and March, the village spends much more time inside. Mark discovers, to his surprise, that he is beginning to understand the conversations in the Kwakwala language and to feel a greater knowledge of his parishioners. Jim takes the opportunity of this slow time to visit Keetah, who reports that she is worried about her sister. There has been no word since her departure in December under a cloud of shame. Mark uses a trip to Alert Bay to report the missing girl to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), who promise to look for her.

March also brings Oolachon (candlefish) season. This fish provides a significant food source for the tribe as well as the gleena (fish oil) that they use like the white community uses butter. Tradition dictates the protocols, and the whole tribe participates. Mark...