Part 2, 1945-1954, Chapter 10 Summary

Aisling hits it off with Elizabeth's father, even making him chuckle at how her own father had celebrated his fiftieth. Aisling privately tells Elizabeth about disliking having to fight off Tony's sexual advances. Later, over sherry and whiskey, they discuss Elizabeth's pregnancy. Aisling is sidetracked into wanting to know what sex is like. Elizabeth does it only because it is a normal part of life for Stone. The doctor who confirms the pregnancy knows that Elizabeth is unmarried and claims that things often work out better than one thinks. Elizabeth wants Stone more than life and has decided to say nothing about the abortion she has arranged. After talking and drinking all night, Aisling agrees against her conscience to keep the secret and not interfere. Aisling finds Stone surprisingly not an ogre.

George is exceptionally jolly at the party...