Final answer:
The tone of the chapter is suspenseful as it uses descriptions and character reactions to build tension and anticipation regarding an imminent threat.
Step-by-step explanation:
The tone of the provided chapter passages is suspenseful. The narrative consistently builds tension and anticipation through the descriptions of the lurking presence in the water and the reactions of the characters involved. Words like hurtled, agitated, thrusting, and phrases such as 'the fish recognized prey' and 'for the first time, the woman felt fear' contribute to a growing sense of danger and urgency. The imminent threat of the fish and the uncertainty regarding the characters' fates create a compelling sense of suspense that maintains the reader's attention and concern for the outcomes.