Charlotte Ardsley

Charlotte exudes understanding and compassion when it comes to the struggles faced by her family and friends. She realizes that Esther and Howard's union was born out of genuine love. An open-minded soul, she once believed the great divide of social classes would soften in the aftermath of the war.

Her devotion to her husband is so profound that she shields him from harsh truths, such as her own illness. Though she strives fiercely to safeguard her loved ones, an overwhelming fatigue engulfs her, bringing an unexpected sense of liberation as she approaches her final days.

Eva Ardsley

Eva has embraced the role of Sydney's caregiver and dutifully manages the household amidst her mother's declining health. Sydney, with a touch of cynicism, claims she relishes the martyrdom, suggesting, “it’s jam for Evie to have an invalid to look after.” He quips, “Nature destined her to be a saint and it’s damned lucky for her that I’m around to give her the opportunity of earning a heavenly crown.”

Yet, Sydney sees only a fragment of her motives. While aiding others provides her with purpose, a growing frustration gnaws at Eva due to her lack of other life choices. She yearns deeply for a family of her own.

Leonard Ardsley

Leonard is an eternal optimist, always gazing at the sunny side of life, perhaps to avoid confronting uncomfortable truths. Mrs. Ardsley observes, “he can never see further than the end of his nose,” adding that she has always had to ensure he didn’t stumble over the obvious dangers.

Though initially appearing sympathetic to Collie's plight, Leonard’s empathy stops short of taking action. He refuses to hold the government accountable for the war's aftermath, rationalizing their inaction with, “the nation can’t afford itself the luxury of supporting an army of officers it has no use for.”

Lois Ardsley

Lois has grown hardened and self-centered, her limited opportunities forging a path of selfishness. Despite her lack of affection for Wilfred, she finds herself drawn to the thrill of escaping with him. Her consideration for others, like Gwen or her sister, fades as she entertains the idea of an affair with Howard. The bleakness of her sisters' lives terrifies Lois, fueling her self-centered focus.

Sydney Ardsley

Sydney masterfully combines a sardonic wit with a deep understanding of others' shortcomings as he navigates life without sight. He often turns his humor inward, as when he reassures his mother by jesting that she could comfort herself with the knowledge of having a hero for a son. Yet, the war has left him jaded, lamenting that "we have had our chance of making a good job of life snatched away from us."

Proclaiming a certain toughness, Sydney argues that hardship hasn’t ennobled him. He skeptically ponders what Eva would do without the family to serve, hinting at her desire for sainthood. Despite this, Sydney extends empathy toward others, graciously handling Gwen's clumsy pity and mourning Collie's tragic end, aware of the burden his blindness places on those around him.

Ethel Bartlett

Ethel embodies decency and pride, cherishing the romantic memories of her early love with Howard. Her pragmatic nature forces her to acknowledge the strains in their marriage, yet she chooses not to voice complaints, maintaining that she has always given her best. Her selflessness leads her to believe that she has borne more of the burden of breaking social barriers than Howard.

Howard Bartlett

Howard has a penchant for drink and tries to project an air of grandeur, though his words betray him. He insists to Wilfred of his status as an officer and gentleman,...