Percy

Percy is a local boy whose reckless cruelty and suspicion endanger both animals and people. He shoots a bird with a BB gun despite Bernard Walton's protest, then watches in amazement when traveler Ezekiel prays and the bird revives. Later, after Mary Beth Pearson disappears, Percy accuses Ezekiel simply because the huge stranger frightens him. He steals ribbons from Ezekiel's pack and presents them as evidence connected to the missing girl. The claim is false; the ribbons belonged to Ezekiel's daughter, and Mary Beth's mother confirms they are not hers. Percy's actions show how fear can turn into accusation when someone values a dramatic story more than truth. His interference helps an anxious crowd suspect the very man who soon risks everything to save the missing child.