Nora Webster

Nora is still “afraid to spend money” (215), even though Charlie Haughey has again increased the pensions. She is a fan of Haughey even though others spread rumors of a scandal that is brewing against him. He is eventually arrested and charged with running guns from the Republic into Northern Ireland. One evening, Aunt Josie visits unexpectedly and praises Nora as “marvelous” for the way that she has handled the family’s situation after Maurice’s death. Josie mentions that she has money invested, and she suggests that she and Nora could take a vacation to Spain. After much deliberation, Nora accepts the offer.

Nora is excited by the trip to Spain. She is very happy with the weather and the hotel, but she must share a room with Josie, who snores very loudly. By the fifth day, Nora has not slept at all, so she asks the tour guide for help. Later, a member of staff leads her into a small room in the basement. The room is not particularly pleasant, but Nora is relieved to have a quiet place to sleep. She sleeps there each night for the rest of the vacation and enjoys herself.

When she returns home, Aine tells Nora that Conor has been “put into the B-class” (225) at the school run by the Christian Brothers.