Chapter 25 Summary

The behavior of the native birds now signals the coming of winter. It is December. The Baxters enjoyed a fine trade on their part of the bear cubs, but relations between the two neighboring families are now particularly strained since Lem's attack on Penny. Buck does stop by, though, one day, to report that the wolf problem seems to be resolved, although the bears, particularly Old Slewfoot, continue to steal calves from the Forrester corral. Penny thinks he might be able to catch the old bear in his tricks. He takes the opportunity to mention the deer about which Lem had become so ornery, and Buck's response suggests he actually believes Penny lied about his hunting intentions. Unfriendly terms with the neighbors continue to disturb Penny.

Work is slow now, and Penny declares it will be so until after Christmas. Jody, with ample...