The War I Finally Won

Susan takes Ada and Jamie to the church steeple in preparation for her work as a fire-watcher. Ada is terrified of climbing the narrow staircase and ladder to reach the steeple. Ada tries to disguise her fear, but Susan notices. She tells Ada that she can find another way to help the war effort, but Ada insists on fire-watching.

Ada asks Susan about her deceased friend Becky, including where she is buried. Susan is clearly emotional about the topic, but despite the tears in her eyes, she answers Ada’s questions frankly. Maggie returns to boarding school, much to Ada’s disappointment.

Lady Thorton unexpectedly drops by and tells Susan that she will be moving into the cottage with them. The household is shocked at the news.

Lady Thorton explains that the government requested the use of Thorton house for wartime purposes and that she intends to move in with Susan, Ada, and Jamie. Ada is very hesitant about her moving in. Susan points out that Lady Thorton owns their cottage, so they have little choice.

When Lady Thorton moves in, she brings many furnishings and decorations with her. Ada feels unsettled by the changes, especially the ones Lady Thorton makes in Ada’s bedroom, which she fills with Maggie’s various beautiful belongings.