War Horse: Chapter 18 Summary & Analysis

In the happy days after his reunion with Albert, Joey almost forgets about the horrors of the war. Major Martin cleans and closes his wound, and he seems to be healing well at first. Albert spends as much time with Joey as possible, and the other veterinary orderlies also enjoy visiting the famous animal. But one day, Joey loses his appetite and suddenly finds the sounds of the stables and yard beyond intolerably loud. When Albert comes to visit, Joey can barely stand the noise and movement of his beloved friend, and he startles into the corner of his stall. Alarmed, Albert summons David, Sergeant Thunder, and Major Martin.

Major Martin and Sergeant Thunder carefully examine Joey before the Sergeant declares that the horse has an almost certainly fatal case of tetanus. Major Martin tells Albert that it will be kinder to end the animal’s suffering quickly. But Albert begs his superior officers to do something. David supports his friend, recalling Major Martin’s words when the orderlies arrived at the hospital. He told them how important the Army’s horses are to the war effort and told them to never give up on the animals. Although Sergeant Thunder chides David for speaking out of turn to an officer, Major Martin takes his words to heart. Warning Albert that there’s only a slim chance Joey will survive, and it will be hard work to take care of him through the illness, he explains what Albert must do.

Major Martin cleans and re-cauterizes Joey’s wound. The soldiers suspend him from a sling to keep him standing. They block out the light and limit the sound around the stall for Joey’s comfort, and they feed him thin oatmeal gruel that won’t choke him. For weeks, Albert spends almost all his time caring for Joey, while still carrying out the rest of his duties. Joey becomes sicker, but he fights for his life, heartened by the love and support he receives from Albert, David, the Major, Sergeant Thunder, and the rest of the men. And then, in the middle of one night, he suddenly feels better. He nickers quietly and wakes up Albert, who has been sleeping in the stall with him.

Albert and David shout with happiness; within minutes, the noise of their celebration has drawn all of the orderlies and Sergeant Thunder into the stable. Albert wants reassurance that Joey will be alright, and Sergeant Thunder confirms that he will, thanks to such diligent nursing. A few days later, they take Joey out of the sling, and Albert slowly and gently leads him into the bright, sunshiny yard. He promises that the war will be over soon, and they’ll be able to go home together. Albert can’t wait to see the look on the farmer’s face when they come riding up the road together.