The Door in the Wall

Robin worries whether he’ll ever stand up straight again. Brother Luke says it’s better to have flawed legs than a flawed spirit.

One of Robin’s archery teachers says the boy is doing very well for a beginner. John shows him how to bend maple wood into the shape of a harp and how to dry deer gut for strings. Robin learns to play and sing; he plans to perform music for his mother. He worries, though, that she won’t accept him now that his legs are weak. Brother Luke assures Robin that she will love him no matter what happens.

In November, the weather turns chilly, wet, and windy. With Luke’s urging, Robin continues his swimming despite the cold. He gets so good at using his crutches that he can outrun the other boys in outdoor games. Robin also makes friends with the gruff old sentry, Alan-at-Gate, who lets the boy come and go through the castle gate as he pleases.

Robin is far enough along on building a harp that John decides it’s time for him to leave and spend time with his mother, who lives in the next town.

Later that day, fog rolls in so thick that people can’t see others until they’re upon them.