Summary

In “Number Four, The Avenue (7 August 1976)” Grace returns home from the drainpipe early because Tilly did not show up. Her mother refuses to speak with her, and Mrs. Morton told her it would be best if she stays home and “have a really good think about things” (297). A phone call rings sad news, and Grace is called downstairs. Tilly is in the hospital.

The novel flashbacks to 1967 when the neighborhood is aroused at Grace’s disappearance. At Sheila’s questioning, Sylvia says she went upstairs for shoes, and may have taken a nap while Grace was in a pushchair in the kitchen. She recounts her day, an ordinary one, except for meeting Walter Bishop on the street and his remarking at what a beautiful child Grace was. The residents march over to Walter’s house and...