An early winter snow has covered the ground, but melted as it fell into the still open lake. The cabin owners have shoveled their walk and driveway and no longer use the warm weather balcony. The pheasants, unlike their neighbors, require neither path nor amenities to live on the land and meet their elemental needs.

The heavy frost glistens in the morning light. Winter is in the air. The icy coating is a precursor to the snow that will soon blanket the surroundings. As the horse-drawn wagon and its passengers leave the church and cross the covered bridge, only the dog knows the young boy is hiding there. As he crouches out of sight of the grown-ups, he is praying that he will not be discovered. He knows that with one bark, his secret will be revealed.