Summary

In Chapter 25, Maggie has to go to the post office on Monday for a stamp to mail her letter. She hates the idea of speaking to a stranger, but wants to send the letter. She struggles through the bitter cold. Maggie makes herself go inside but stutters through the “s” sound without saying “stamp.” The woman at the counter, later identified as Tamsin, guesses, “You want a stamp?” (181). Tamsin interrupts each time Maggie stutters, guessing the answer. A woman named Sue enters, talking about her friend who saw a “monster.” Maggie immediately thinks of Rumpus. Maggie again takes frozen meat to Rumpus. Fred does not have much meat left, and Maggie knows he is going to notice soon. Rumpus readily comes to Maggie. He is not hungry, is breathing fast, and is not interested in playing. Maggie notes that they are both limited...