Who is William “Billy” Stirling?

William “Billy” Stirling is the father of William Lane and lover of Chrissie. He is spooked when he learns Chrissie is pregnant but returns to try to make things right. When Chrissie’s father will not let Billy see her, Billy writes her a letter. Dr. Skinner talks Billy into giving the letter to him to give to Chrissie. Dr. Skinner does not give Chrissie the letter and sends her away to Ireland before Billy can contact her again. Dr. Skinner does not like Billy not only because he is adopted but also because his mother had been overly protective of him when he was a child. He additionally thinks her daughter is worthy of a better man than Billy.