Carmody says
Don’t be talking of the trip. Sure we’re glad to take it to get a sight of you. It’s three months since I’ve had a look at you, and I was anxious. Why haven’t you written a line to us? You could do that without trouble, surely. Don’t you ever think of us at all any more? You’re not asking a bit of news from home. I’m thinkin’ the people out here have taken all the thought of us out of your head. We’re all well, thank God. I’ve another good job on the streets from Murphy and one that’ll last a long time, praise be! I’m needin’ it surely, with all the expenses- but no matter. Billy had a raise from his old skinflint of a boss a month back. He’s gettin’ seven a week now and proud as a turkey. He was comin’ out with us to-day, but he’d a date with his girl. Sure, he’s got a girl now, the young bucko! What d’you think of him? It’s old Malloy’s girl he’s after- the pop-eyed one with glasses, you remember- as ugly as a blind sheep, only he don’t think so. He said to give you his love.
(Eileen stirs and sighs wearily, a frown appearing for an instant on her forehead.)
And Tom and Nora was comin’ out too, but Father Fitz had some doin’s or other up to the school, and he told them to be there, so they wouldn’t come with us, but they sent their love to you, too. They’re growin’ so big you’d not know them. Tom’s no good at the school. He’s like Billy was. I’ve had to take the strap to him often. He’s always playin’ hooky and roamin’ the streets. And Nora.
(With pride.)
There’s the divil for you! Up to everything she is and no holdin’ her high spirits. As pretty as a picture, and the smartest girl in her school, Father Fitz says. Am I lyin’, Maggie?