Chapter 36
Contains spoilers
Summary
- Harry sends Hazel a sketch of Flora which is left ambiguous for interpretation.
- Hazel reminisces about a dream involving Father Fenelly and her mother, with a sense of estrangement in her mother's behavior.
- Hazel stores Harry's sketch in a folder with 352 other sketches alongside her stories.
- The morning is unusual as Hazel finds the kitchen empty and Bridie's car missing.
- She feels something is amiss and turns on the wireless to hear the announcement of London being bombed.
- Hazel is struck by the confirmation of bombings they had feared and anticipated.
- After tending to morning activities and being joined by Flora, they learn Bridie and Harry went to get a newspaper.
- Bridie brings sad news about the bombing; their house is safe, but their friend Kelty's mother died in the attack.
- Hazel and Flora learn Kelty is hurt but alive and will go to her aunt in Lancashire.
- Hazel grapples with feelings of guilt and unfairness given the contrast between their secure life and the suffering in London.
- Mum arrives in Binsey three days later, visibly affected by the bombing but focusing on life in Binsey.
- Despite the difficult circumstances, Mum stays the night at their house, and Hazel seeks comfort with her.
- The next day, Hazel implores her mother to take her to London to see Kelty, despite the dangers.
- After a heated exchange, Mum agrees to take Hazel to London with the condition that she returns that afternoon.
- Hazel leaves with her mum for London, determined to see Kelty in the hospital.