Summary

In “ConaLee, A Chance Encounter, December 1874,” as the months passed, Mama grew better and was “talking almost normal” (200). However, ConaLee was still afraid after seeing Papa. She and Mama discussed the probability of him hurting them. Mam was unconcerned. She felt safe at the Asylum and never wanted to leave. Then ConaLee asked about her father for the first time. Mama was reluctant to tell the story, but admitted that Dearbhla had gone looking for him years prior. She then reflected on her past and present lives. She was happy here with Dr. Story, with whom she had grown close. She suggested that ConaLee join him and her for one of their regular carriage rides soon.

ConaLee retreated to her room in the attendants’ quarters. She realized Mama was growing younger as she “grew older” (212). She missed Chap...