Summary

Blacks began to gather in the encampment near the Thornhills’ house. The family was nervous. Even though he knew neighbors were waiting for him to come and haul their potatoes, Thornhill put off his trip. Thornhill had gone once to the ridge that overlooked the blacks’ camp. There were more than forty black congregated there. That night the sounds of clapping and singing came from the camp. Dan and Ned both believed the sounds indicated the blacks were coming to get them. Willie spoke up in words Thornhill thought Smasher or Sagitty might use telling him they needed to take care of the blacks. Dick, however, believed there was no need for a gun.

Needing to get away from the fear in the hut Thornhill went to see what the blacks were doing. When he saw the way...