At Hazel’s mother’s house, Tenny is celebrating his birthday. Hazel, Barnaby, and Kelty are in attendance. Hazel privately asks Kelty if she can accompany her to St. Ives to question Harry. Kelty agrees and confesses that she sent a telegram to Peggy asking for more information.

Hazel receives a letter saying her mother will come visit shortly. While they wait, she and Flora grow accustomed to their days with Bridie and Harry. One day, Flora calls Hazel in a panic; she has put her gas mask on because she heard a police car. Another day, Hazel and Harry work on their homework together; Hazel struggles with math. When Harry tries to help, Hazel becomes irritable and defensive. At night, Kelty comes to tell Hazel she’s running away back home to London. Hazel promises not to reveal Kelty’s secret, but later she breaks her promise and tells Bridie because she’s worried.

Soon after, Hazel’s mother arrives at Bridie’s cottage. Hazel and Flora regale her with stories of their stay, but they notice their mother seems frightened and withdrawn. Their mother returns to London, and the girls stay in Binsey.