Chapter 9 Summary

Dawn breaks on another beautiful spring day, following a light rain. Jody is amazed at all the growing and blooming plants that he had not noticed a few days ago. Could one night away make such a difference? His belly is full now, having eaten well for two days running, and he chops wood at a leisurely pace. Penny has found an albino raccoon in the trap, and father and son marvel at it. Jody cradles the dead animal, wishing he had seen it alive, perhaps kept it for a pet. His mother, however, declares that, no matter how pretty, this is the varmint that has been messing with her hens. Penny arranges for Jody to have the pelt for a knapsack, and Jody is so thrilled that he offers to clean the water troughs. A discussion of water's scarcity ensues, along with...