Summary

That evening, a policeman came to the family’s home and inspect the elephant. Although Marlene knocked his cap off with her trunk, the officer laughed and approved of the family keeping the elephant. Later, neighbors and friends visited to see Marlene and bring her food. The family had to cart piles of her dung in wheelbarrows to one corner of the garden. A few days after Marlene had been living in the garden, Elizabeth gained the courage to spend time alone with her: she realized that Marlene was very patient and understanding.

One evening, a neighbor’s barking dog bothered Marlene, so the family took her for a walk to calm her down. Suddenly, the same dog appeared, and Marlene charged after it.

Analysis

This brief chapter mainly serves to expand on Marlene’s role, both...