Chapter 11 Summary

Mattie, her grandfather, and the farmer's family ride the wagon out of Philadelphia. Grandfather Cook develops a worrying cough that often leaves him breathless and red-faced. To console her, Mattie's grandfather lectures her about being a good soldier and talks about some of his experiences in the Revolutionary War - his talking lulls Mattie to sleep.

Mattie awakes several hours later when the wagon comes to an abrupt halt. Four horsemen with muskets block the road. They announce all people in the wagon must pass a medical inspection before they can continue on their journey. Unfortunately, Grandfather Cook fails to pass the medical inspection because of his cough. The farmer ejects Mattie and her grandfather from the wagon, and quickly continues on his way with all of their food, supplies, and belongings. Mattie argues with the soldiers but they are resolute and demand...