Passing, Part Two, Chapter Two Summary

Irene is offended that Clare needed to use a PO box as a return address, implying that Irene would be indiscreet. She throws Clare's letter away. Irene feels they have nothing in common now, and a barrier of peril lies between them.

Irene ponders the characteristics of her sons — Junior, much like her, is practical and determined, but Ted had a demeanor like his father's, perhaps hiding his true feelings to avoid confrontation. Irene is afraid, again, of losing Brian to his own desires, in spite of her constant trying to make everything right.

Clare Kendry comes to the door, and Irene tells her it just isn't right, that she should not take "silly risks." For just a moment she realizes the heights and depths Clare is willing to go to get what she...