Summary

In Part 4, Chapter 1, Nancy’s family goes to the cathedral for Miriam’s wedding. Nancy notices Eilis talking to some other women. She greets Eilis, but the conversation is strained. During the ceremony, Nancy tries not to cry. Then she starts thinking about George and bursts into tears.

Throughout the reception, Nancy observes the guests and listens attentively to the toasts. She catches Jim’s eye throughout, hoping they might dance. She also notices who Eilis is talking to, wondering if she and Jim feel uncomfortable seeing each other again. Then Miriam’s husband Matt Wadding’s sisters sing several songs. Offended by the content, Nancy dismisses herself to a room Laura “reserved for them to refresh themselves” (163). She, her sister, and friends chat and drink here for some time. Finally, the party ends when Miriam and Matt leave. Nancy scans the hall...