In a poignant moment of uncertainty, two characters find themselves in a difficult situation. Sproule, struggling with a wound and illness, reflects on their options while sitting on a bench. The conversation reveals his physical state and mental struggle as he contemplates the extent of their dire circumstances. His condition is serious, suggesting that he is suffering from tuberculosis, which he refers to as "consumption." This highlights the harsh realities of their environment and the toll it has taken on them both.

Their dialogue conveys a sense of hopelessness, as they grapple with their limited choices. While one character suggests heading back to Texas, Sproule expresses doubt about their ability to survive the journey. The exchange underscores their desperation and the weight of their predicament, encapsulating a broader theme of survival and the fragility of life within the narrative. McCarthy's writing emphasizes the stark landscape and the emotional burdens carried by his characters.