The Boy arrives at Bull’s camp with a message from the Little Elk Agency. Pell has returned with a gift for the Little Elk tribe. He is also accompanied by a lawyer, who wishes to speak with Pock Face. Louis, Pock Face’s father, voices his concerns about the outsider’s intentions and the trouble facing his son if he meets with the officials. When Bull relays the message regarding the gift to Two Sleeps, the old man puts a hand over his eyes and cries. He begs the storm to stay with him but also says that his “heart is already dead” (220). This troubles the others, and Louis points out that the white settlers are taking everything from them. Bull insists on waiting before deciding what to do, and Louis tells him that if they try to take Pock Face, he will kill someone.

Bull’s camp joins with the horse hunters for the night, and they discuss Rafferty’s request for a meeting and the word of a gift from Pell. Louis, fearing for Pock Face’s safety, is wary of the government’s intentions, while Bull insists on exploring the matter further.