Chapter Seven, Through the Valley Summary

Andy, a boy from a nearby town who has, in a way, been adopted by Port William, is preparing to go to college; it is his last day before he leaves. While he finishes his work, he contemplates the woods and streams that he became so familiar with in Port Williams; they are almost like a parent to him. After saying goodbye to his fellow workers, he stops by at Mat and Margaret Feltner's house. Margaret gives him some words of encouragement, urging him not to forget what he learned while in Port William. She also asks him to see Old Jack before leaving, and he does.

He finds Old Jack sitting on the porch of his hotel, lost in thought as usual. Old Jack does not recognize him until he says who he is...