Chapter Six, The Naming Summary

Alyce announces her name to the midwife who is still angry and in pain from her broken ankle. Heading outside to share the news of her name with the cat, Alyce decides that since she has a name the cat should too. As Alyce lists a choice of names from which the cat should choose, several villagers go by and comment on her seeming insanity and her name.

The cat decides on his name, Purr, and he and Alyce set off on a walk, only to be cornered by the village boys that torment them. Though the girl is frightened by the drunken boys, she still works up the courage to whisper her new name when they call her Beetle.

The boys laugh and tease, claiming the girl has called Will, the red-headed boy, Alyce. A chase...