Summary

Julia wakes early on November 1st. Tim surprises her with a birthday present: chocolate truffles and an orange Julia cries with happiness.

Julia goes to the hospital for her shift. She goes to the Maternity/Fever ward. Sister Luke tells her Mary’s contractions are closer together. She whispers to Julia that Honor’s piety is insincere; this is her second pregnancy out of wedlock. She explains to Julia that Honor will have to return to the mother-and-baby home ran by nuns where unwed pregnant women are sent, as that they must work for a year after giving birth to work off the cost of being there.

Bridie enters, which relieves Julia who was worried she would not return. Sister Luke leaves.

Julia gives Delia, still grieving, a chest binding, to stop lactating. Julia instructs Bridie how to apply pressure to Mary...