The Alice Network

In October 1915, Lili and Eve hear about a female spy who was executed by firing squad. Fortunately, it turns out not to be Violette, though she is still in German custody. Cameron wants to call his spies home, but Allenton wants them to stay in occupied France. Lili tells Eve that, if they leave, they would be perceived as having cracked under pressure: “Go home now, and the fight would be done. However long this war went on, Eve’s chance to contribute would be over” (297). Despite the danger, both women decide to stay.

A few days later, Eve overhears the Kommandant talking about a massive German assault at Verdun planned for the beginning of the new year. Lili says Eve must report this personally to Cameron in Tournai. The next Sunday, when Le Lethe is closed, the two women begin their journey to Tournai, intending to share a single travel pass between them. Lili believes they can bluff their way through the checkpoint, but both women are caught and arrested.

In May 1947, Charlie is still reeling from the news of Rose’s death. After departing the burned-out village, Finn gets them a room at a nearby hotel because Charlie is too distraught to go any farther.