"My theory," said Eben, "is that being a captive is an honor for the strong and...

"My theory," said Eben, "is that being a captive is an honor for the strong and the uncomplaining."
Sarah and Mercy considered this.
"Then why is Ruth alive? She complains all day long," said Sarah.
"But she isn't sobbing," Mercy pointed out, "and she isn't actually complaining. She's calling them names. She attacked her own Indian this afternoon, did you see? She was going to stab him with his own knife."
They giggled. It was scary to watch Ruth, and impossible not to. Instead of a blow to the head, though, Ruth was usually given food. It wasn't a method anybody else wanted to try.
"But Eliza doesn't fit your theory, Eben," said Mercy. "She hasn't spoken since they killed Andrew. If you let go her arm, she stops walking. Yet they're patient with her."
"I admit Eliza isn't brave," said Eben. "She's in a stupor. Maybe they respect her for caring about her husband so deeply."
Mercy had never liked thinking about Eliza marrying an Indian. But what was her own future now? Would she, would Sarah, would Ruth, end up marrying an Indian?
The image of Ruth Catlin agreeing to obey an Indian as her lawfully wedded husband made Mercy laugh.