Chapter 4 Summary and Analysis

After having to shoot Kate, Robyn is overwhelmed by depression. This is combined with a growing fear of Kurt, with whom Robyn continues to associate, because she needs to use his facilities to care for her camels. Kurt goes away for a few days, and Robyn stays with his wife Gladdy, trying to help Gladdy to have the courage to leave Kurt. One night, Robyn starts to seriously consider suicide, but Gladdy wakes up and asks her if she wants to talk, and Robyn changes her mind. A few days later, Gladdy leaves her husband, and predictably, Kurt takes it out on Robyn. He becomes unbearable, and one day, he disappears, having sold the entire ranch, camels and all, including Robyn herself.

Robyn assures the new owners that she does not in fact come with the ranch, but when she sees...