Giles is James' spinster cousin who lives in New York. She works with dying nuns and asks few questions. She acts as a chaperone to Kathleen. However, she appears to have no idea of what Kathleen is up to when she is not with her voice teacher. When Kathleen introduces her to Rose, Giles is both hospitable and welcoming. She encourages Kathleen to bring Rose over rather than stay out late at night. When James takes Kathleen back to New Waterford, Rose comes over to find out what happened but Giles is not able to offer much information. She offers Rose a place to stay but she declines.