Palmer is not excited on his birthday, not thrilled with presents or the presence of his friends. Many things hang heavy in his mind. What are some of the things that are troubling Palmer on his tenth birthday?

First, since he had to invite Dorothy, he wonders if she will show up for his party. Palmer has dreaded his tenth birthday because it is the day that marks him as a wringer. Even his candles look to him like the ghosts of ten pigeons. He is also worried about Nipper and what will happen to the bird if the gang finds him. Equally, Palmer is worried about what the gang will think of him when they learn he likes pigeons and does not want to wring their necks.