Book I, Part II - Desolation in the World: Chapters 53 - 57 Summary

In Kerouac's eyes, Fred is like a guardian angel and savior wrapped up in one. Never was a sweeter man born. Fred has big, sad eyes and a quiet demeanor that can lead into unbreakable trances. Everyone loves Fred, whose job is to monitor campfires.

Kerouac approaches. Fred takes the author's heavy rucksack and hauls it on board, sensing Kerouac's exhaustion. The author climbs aboard and bathes his wounded feet.

Fred shouts over the engine, content to share sightings of deer with Kerouac, who shows every one of the 63 days the author spent on Desolation Peak. Kerouac returns the small talk with stories of the bear and strange birds that kept him company. There is a rumor that there are coyotes on Crater...