Tim receives a draft notice that will force him to decide between going to war in Vietnam or fleeing to Canada. He flees to Tip Top Lodge in Canada and stays with Erloy Berdhal for 6 days, using the time to decide his path. The silence between them represents Tim's difficult choice. On the last day, Erloy rows Tim back to the U.S. shore, where Tim must make his decision. Facing his fears and memories, Tim decides to go to war, feeling shame and guilt over the thought of being seen as a coward.