Charlotte's Web

Wilbur finds it hard to sleep on an empty stomach and a full mind, and when he does manage to fall asleep, he is soon awakened by various barn sounds. Templeton is busy gnawing on wood, the goose stirs in discomfort over her eggs, and Wilbur cannot help but wonder who the voice was promising to be his friend. Dawn breaks, and Wilbur is filled with excitement to meet his new friend. Although “he hated to break the lovely stillness of dawn by using his voice” (34), he cannot help but call out, asking for a sign from this mysterious friend. The sheep begin lecturing him, telling him he will surely lose his new friend by waking them this way. Charlotte is still asleep and is not awakened by Wilbur’s shouts.

After Lurvy comes to feed the animals, Charlotte pipes up with “salutations” (35) and draws attention to her web in the corner of the doorway. Wilbur looks up at her with delight and is very happy to meet his new friend. She introduces herself as Charlotte A. Cavatica but insists on being called Charlotte.