NORA. (knitting) Isn't it lonesome here now without Michael? It's not to be borne, Cathleen. I can't stay here. I must go into the town and get the governess for the children till the spring begins and the men come home. Sure they'll not be long away from the west this time. They're all away together.
CATHLEEN. God keep us from mischief. Michael's gone too from us and another's taken. The heart is like to break inside me at the thought of it. Ma's awake now; she'll be wanting to see to the dead.
NORA. What, is she up? I'll go and tell her.
CATHLEEN. Don't be long, dear; the sea is loud to-night.
NORA. (going to the bed and looking at the dead man) Sure, it's a hard bed for him to lie in that's worn himself to the bone with the working. You had him a brave son, Ma.
MAURYA. (rising) He was a good lad. The heart is grieved, but God gave him to us for a time and took him away. I saw him go to the strand and I saw him gone out on the sea. I have seen all my men taken from me but two now. Quiet, and we'll not play the fool with crying.
CATHLEEN. (crossing herself) Jesus, have mercy on his soul. May the blessed Virgin lighten him through purgatory!
MAURYA. (kneeling to pray) Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy name...
NORA. (softly) Ma, had we two more left us I'd not be afraid. But with one there to help us, it's little we can do.
MAURYA. (lifted in voice) One more or none. I'd as lief have none at all. When he goes I'll be alone with my sorrow. I have seen the sea take men from me till I can't be fretted nor vexed about it. I have lost husband and sons to the sea. What else could I lose?