Summary

In Part Two, Chapter 10, “A Fish under the Table, 1919, Glasgow,” Digby Kilgour grows up in Glasgow with his mother. His father Archie disappeared when he was young. Over the years, his mother grows increasingly depressed. Then one day, he returns home to discover his mother has hanged herself. He realizes this “is what he feared” all along (88).

In Chapter 11, “Caste, 1933, Madras,” Digby leaves Glasgow for India. While traveling, he realizes all “water is connected” (90). He feels himself “plunging toward his future” (91). He has joined the Indian Medical Service, “hoping to develop as a surgeon” (93). He reflects on his past and future.

In Chapter 12, “Two Big Ones, 1933, Madras,” Digby reports to Civil Surgeon Claude Arnold at Longmere Hospital where he will work as Assistant Civil Surgeon (97). Arnold explains Digby’s job and introduces him to Matron Honorine. Arnold urges Digby to “Be bold” as...