Chapters 20, 21 and 22 Summary

Ghetel suddenly attacks Mary. In the scuffle, the tomahawk falls into the river. The water is deep, and there's no way for the two women to retrieve it. It's the "awfulness" of that loss that brings Ghetel back to the reality of their situation. Mary instantly accuses Ghetel, calling her names and beating her with the stick that Mary uses as a spear. Mary begins to walk away and leave Ghetel, thinking that her life would be easier without the old woman. She hadn't gone far when she realizes that she needs Ghetel's companionship. She then sees that there are wolves nearby, and that they aren't afraid of the humans. She fears that they'll attack and prepares to cross the river. Then Ghetel arrives, unaware of the wolves. They precariously manage to cross the river though they lose Ghetel's blankets and...