Although he catches Nida's thoughtful look, Maine can't guess its source. People have questioned Maine's intelligence before and have assumed he's illiterate, but Maine doubts that's the case with Nida. Why would Nida hand him a book if he thought Maine couldn't read?

So, Maine bears the scrutiny without comment. When Nida asks if he wants something from the kitchen, Maine nods — he rarely ever turns down food. Once Nida is on his way, Maine will find a place to warm up by the fire and settle in to read the book.