Caleb's Crossing

By the fall, Caleb proceeds rapidly in his knowledge of reading in English under Bethia’s instruction. His spoken English also advances—most impressive is his ability to pronounce words without any accent. Bethia believes this is due to the Wampanoag practice of mimicking the sounds of nature.

Caleb is eager to learn, but Bethia finds that when she tries to teach him using stories from the Bible, he often points out contradictions: For example, he is surprised that God would let the serpent tempt Adam and Eve.

Suddenly one day, Caleb informs Bethia that he will not be able to see her anymore: He is going to be trained as a pawaaw. Bethia is very distressed, because from her perspective, the pawaaw training involves becoming conversant with demonic forces.

During Caleb’s absence, Bethia turns 15. Despite her young age, she undergoes a crisis of identity. She thinks about how she has had no opportunity for self-determination, other than her secret friendship with Caleb. 

Bethia accompanies her father on a trip to the home of the Merrys, who own a gristmill and have dealings with the indigenous population. Her father is pleased with Bethia because in her ramblings she discovered some lush pasture where she recommended they graze their sheep.