Hanna enjoys a focused week of lessons with only Bess, Sadie, and herself in the school. She also enjoys finally cooking the timpsina the Sioux women gave her, which tastes like a cross between turnips and potatoes. Miss Walters introduces the idea that Bess and Hanna might like to focus their studies on Sixth Reader level work for the next two weeks, study, and take the exams for the completion of their schooling. Hanna sees that this way, her schooling will be over, and the other students will be permitted to peacefully return next term. She feels unfairly cheated out of a full school experience but agrees to talk to Papa about the plan.

Hanna draws up some sketches for the workroom at the shop where she knows she will spend much of her time once she is helping Papa. Papa approves of her ideas and allows her to show the sketch to Mr. Hart. Included in her design is a desk under the window where she can sew in good light, though she does not detail this for Papa.

After discussing the plan to graduate early with Papa, Hanna agrees to go along with it. She studies intently for two weeks along with ordering supplies and readying the shop for its opening.