The doctor inspected the deep gash on Ngaiti"s head and sutured the wound, proclaiming that he was suffering from concussion and needed rest to recover. He dutifully dispensed some laudanum to ease the pain, which left Ngaiti sleepy. The cause of the incident was still unknown and until the effect of the opiate had worn off, it was unlikely Ngaiti would be able to communicate in any coherent way.

It was decided that Eleanor would remain with Ngaiti, and Andrew would continue to work, ...