Summary

When Mrs. Copperfield returned to Colon she "went straight to the hotel de las Palmas" (73). Pacifica was outside, looking tired. Mrs. Copperfield suggested they get a drink with Mrs. Quill. Pacifica said Mrs. Quill was in a bad mood because she and her boyfriend were fighting. Pacifica thought it was embarrassing to see "an old woman making such a fool" of herself (74).

In Mrs. Quill’s room, Mrs. Copperfield was desperate to have everyone back in good spirits, and announced her plans to stay at the hotel. Mrs. Quill was distracted and unimpressed. She and Pacifica argued. Pacifica stormed out.

Mrs. Quill gave Mrs. Copperfield a room. Feeling distressed, Mrs. Copperfield "lay down on the bed," and told herself to be happy (76). She did not feel like being alone in her room. Just after she ordered a bottle of gin, Pacifica "burst...