The Sign of the Beaver

Matt wakes after much sleep. The Penobscot man returns, dressed in leathers similar to those of Matt’s father; his head and face are shaved except for a topknot. He introduces himself as “Saknis, family of beaver” (26). Matt, in turn, introduces himself as “Matthew Hallowell” and expresses his gratitude for the rescue. Saknis checks Matt’s leg and leaves him a delicious stew and corn bread.

The next day, Saknis returns with the boy from before, his 14-year-old grandson Attean. Attean has shoulder-length dark hair and wears only a breechcloth. He looks around the cabin with distaste. Saknis offers Matt a crutch; embarrassed by Attean’s reaction, Matt tries the crutch and manages to stumble about. After they leave, Matt practices with the crutch until he can move quickly.

After three days, Saknis and Attean return with a new pair of moose-hide moccasins for Matt; Saknis says they will wear better than his old boots. Grateful for Saknis’s kindness and wishing to thank him, Matt gives the only valuable thing he can—a copy of the book Robinson Crusoe. Saknis holds the book upside-down and asks, “White boy read what white man write here?” (30).