Stepping on the Cracks

Margaret and Mother cut down a Christmas tree. Mother is exultant and proud that she could do it without her husband. Going home, they pass the boys’ hut in the woods and meet Gordy and June. The little girl is in tears. Her face is bruised, and she is not dressed for the cold. She tells Mother they must hide in the hut so their daddy will not beat them. Outraged, Mother takes June and Gordy back to the Smiths’ house, though Gordy begs her not to. He also has new injuries.

Mrs. Smith, her face newly bruised, reluctantly opens the door. She explains away her and the children’s injuries, pretending June is telling stories when June says Daddy hurts her. Mother asks her to get help. Mrs. Smith angrily tells her to leave. Mr. Smith, red-eyed and unshaven, also tells Mother to leave as Gordy tries to comfort June. Mother, aghast, drags Margaret home. She worries her visit has made the situation worse. Margaret is certain Mother will call the police and solve the problem, but Mother is silent.