Martha considers sending Digby to Mr. Pynchon—a local law enforcement figure—to ask about either having a guard for Bethel, or sending Magawisca away from the fort. Then she receives a message that Fletcher is only hours away from home. She decides to wait until she has sought her husband’s counsel. His luggage has already arrived, including a millinery box. Mrs. Grafton begs to be allowed to ride to town to collect it. Martha tells Digby to go with her, breaking Fletcher’s rule that there always be a man at home while he is away. Martha, Everell, the baby, and Magawisca sit on the porch to await Fletcher.

Martha asks Magawisca if she loves them. She says yes, but she is silently worried about her father’s presence nearby. Three Indian warriors suddenly burst out of the bushes, including her father. Magawisca begs him to spare them. He ignores her. Just when he is about to chop Martha with a tomahawk, Everell shoots him in the arm. Then he grabs a bugle and blows, signaling danger to the town. Digby is almost home and recognizes the warning, but he does not arrive in time. Martha and all of the children are killed, save for Everell and