Prologue Summary

Fort Niles and Courne Haven islands, located 20 miles off the coast of Maine, are alike in geology, resources, buildings, weather, and people. Intermarriage among the Scots-Irish produces a distinctive population, with Courne Haven with some Swedish traits being introduced by immigrants working in Dr. Jules Ellis' granite quarries on Courne Haven, but no contribution from the Italians working on Fort Niles. When the granite industry folds, those who do not flee turn to lobster fishing. The men of the islands are fierce competitors, going to war in 1902-13. Only Ebbett Thomas stays above the fray, hiding his boat and gear to be ready to fish when peace returns. Ebbett has two sons, Stanley and Len. If he had lived, Ebbett would have liked granddaughter Ruth.

Prologue Analysis

The rather dry Prologue profiles Fort Niles and Courne Haven islands, on which the novel is...