- We learn about Hip's continuing improvement. He remembers that his name is short for Hippocrates and can recall the preceding day or two, but he doesn't remember anything from before meeting Janie.
- She continues bringing the aluminum tube into his sight. He ignores it; she waits patiently. We wish someone were waiting as sweetly for us.
- One day Hip gazes at a particular window and notices scars on his hand. Janie places the tube in his palm. He closes his fist around it, feeling frightened and angry. She reassures him. He realizes the tube is his and that he broke this window.
- Home again, they have a long back-and-forth in which he tries to recall why the tube is important. He remembers that he had it for a long time and that he was looking for someone and a shelter in the woods. Janie just patiently listens, reassures him, and provides him prompts to speak about his memories.
- Hip remembers that someone named Thompson told him to be sick and get sicker. He recalls that he wanted to attack this person. Hip becomes frustrated, unable to remember more details. Janie, all the while, calms him and reassures him that he is not crazy.
- Janie shows him his well-groomed appearance in the mirror to reassure him he that isn't sick. Hip relaxes. He asks if he was in the military, but Janie just waits. Hip recalls that he tried to punch Thompson but hit the window instead, which is what landed him in jail.
- Hip suddenly asks her why she cares. She avoids answering and says she's glad he's getting better.
- He asks where she lives. She says across the hall, and he remembers the night he cried. Embarrassed, he suggests they go out somewhere. Seemingly relieved, she agrees.