Summary

Chapter 9. When World War II breaks out, families in Limerick send their fathers off to fight in England and begin to pull themselves out of poverty when the fathers send their pay home. Malachy leaves for England to find work, and Angela promises when his wages arrive, she will buy the boys one egg each on Sunday mornings. But once again, Malachy fails to send money home.

Frank gets conjunctivitis in his eyes, and has to be hospitalized. While at the hospital, he sees Seamus, the janitor, and Mr. Timoney, who has aged and lost his lively personality. But he tells Frank after his eyes are rested, he should “read till they fall out of your head.”

A desperate Angela goes to the Dispensary for public assistance, and is humiliated by an official who claims that her family does not deserve aid.

Chapter 10. The McCourt...