Book 1, Chapter 5 Facing the Great Desolation Summary

In October a memorable event happens at the Spring Creek settlement. Hans Olsa, Per Hansa and Henry Solum are out collecting wood on the Sioux River while Ttznseten stays home because of his rheumatism. Looking out the window Beret sees a large wagon train moving towards the settlement and feels sorrow for what she calls "lost souls." Beret sends Store-Hans to aide the travelers while she gathers And-Ongen and heads over to Ttznseten. The new arrivals are deemed "decent folk" by Ttznseten upon learning that they are Norwegians. However, these settlers are intent on moving farther Southwest but are excited to see friendly faces.

Ttznseten wishes that Per Hansa whose demeanor is more suited to dealing with newcomers was not away at this moment but does his best to convince the strangers to...