The Skeleton On Round Island From "Mackinac And Lake Stories", 1899

"The Skeleton On Round Island" by Mary Hartwell Catherwood is a story set in the late 1800s around Lake Huron. It tells of Ignace Pelott, a strong mixed-race man, and Mamselle Rosalin’s challenging journey across dangerous, thawing ice to Cheboygan, which takes the reader on a journey of love and survival. On Round Island, a mysterious skeleton seems to provide a warning as they struggle across the landscape. The melting ice strands them, pushing Ignace and Rosalin to face their deepest fears and unspoken feelings. Camping alone draws them closer, finally revealing Ignace's hidden love for Rosalin. As they overcome hardship together, they challenge what society expects of them and become closer to their desires. Their shared trauma leads to a profound moment that forever changes their relationship. Together they work to reconcile their feelings amongst the adventure of the challenging landscape.