Part III: Chapter 17, The Chessboard Fields Summary and Analysis

At the edge of the sea are The Chessboard Fields. Plots of maize, potatoes, figs, and grape are planted in the box-pattern of a chessboard. Easy to get lost in, it is one of Gerald's favorite hunting places. One afternoon Gerald decides to try once again to catch an old terrapin he names Old Plop. As Gerald approaches the terrapin's home, the dogs spot a lizard and run after it scaring Old Plop into the water. When the dogs don't return, Gerald follows their barking to see what they have found. Gerald is thrilled to find two water snakes basking on the bank. One snake senses Gerald's presence and slithers into the water and under the mud. Gerald catches the one on the bank easily and enters the water for its...