Summary

In Chapter Seventeen, Cole finds himself angry again that night. He knows that he will be bored and lonely after Garvey and Edwin are gone. He dreads that time. Edwin wakes him before daylight the next morning. Cole is reluctant to face the cold but gives in to Edwin's insistence. They go to the creek and follow it to a large pool. During the walk, Cole admits that he's battling anger, even now.

Edwin undresses and gets into the frigid water. Cole argues but finally gives in as Edwin says the cold water will help Cole find a calm place. The water takes his breath but he remains next to Edwin.

Edwin challenges Cole to look at a stick as if it is his life. He says the left end of the stick is anger. He instructs Cole to break off that end...