Danny worries that he won’t be able to train Red properly. He doesn’t agree with Ross’s methods of beating his hound dogs to teach them. He believes Red can learn to hunt partridges, although he hasn’t yet broken Red’s love for chasing rodents.

Danny and Ross take Red hunting and fishing with them. Ross lets Danny lead Red’s training, although he is skeptical of the dog’s abilities. While Red explores the grass and water, Danny and Ross catch bass. On the way home, Danny gets annoyed with Red for chasing a rabbit, but his mood changes when he sees how happy Red looks. He reminds himself that Red is a good dog and will soon learn what he wants him to. Danny reiterates these ideas to Ross that evening. However, Ross still wants Red to hunt rodents with him. Danny feels guilty telling Ross no, but thinks his father understands.

Danny takes Red with him to chop wood the next day. He talks to Red while he works. That night, Ross tells Danny that Mr. Haggin wants to see him at the house the following day. He has a woman visiting who wants to meet Red.