Smoke comes from a blaze set in Master Kent's stables. Three local boys are suspected by some, but the rest of the villagers close ranks against a group of strangers rather than accuse one of their own. Two men and a woman are apprehended and the men are thrown into the stocks for a week. Meanwhile, another newcomer has been spotted in the village. He observes them closely and takes careful notes about their land, apparently at Master Kent's behest. It is his presence more than any other that will threaten the village's entire way of life.