Bill McGovern's Death

The death of Ralph's friend, a casualty of Atropos's revenge.

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The Cynic's Mask

A Man Afraid of Aging The Retired Teacher Bill McGovern is a retired history teacher who lives downstairs from Ralph. He is witty, cynical, and afraid of growing old. He complains constantly about the indignities of age, but he is also a loyal friend. The Lost Hat Bill loses his Panama hat, a symbol of his dapper self-image. He searches for it but cannot find it. Ralph later discovers that Atropos has taken it. The hat becomes a token of Bill's vulnerability. A Moment of Honesty Ralph finds Bill crying in Strawford Park over his old friend Bob Polhurst, who is dying of Alzheimer's. Bill admits that he hates getting old and that he is afraid. Ralph tries to comfort him, but Bill's fear is deep.

The Argument

A Friendship Strained Ralph Confides in Bill Ralph tells Bill about the auras and the little bald doctors. Bill reacts with disbelief and concern, suggesting that Ralph's insomnia is causing hallucinations. He urges Ralph to see a doctor. The Break Ralph is hurt by Bill's dismissal. They argue on the front porch, with Bill shouting that Ralph sounds like Ed Deepneau. Ralph walks away, angry and disillusioned. A Note of Apology Later, Bill leaves a note apologizing. He explains that Bob Polhurst's impending death has wrecked his nerves. Ralph is relieved, but the damage is done.

The Heart Attack

The Final Stroke Atropos's Revenge As Bill leaves the hospital, Atropos cuts his balloon-string. Bill collapses in the corridor, dead of a heart attack. Ralph and Lois, watching from a higher level, see it happen but cannot intervene. The Aftermath Ralph is devastated. He realizes that Atropos killed Bill to punish him for interfering. Bill's death hardens Ralph's resolve to stop Atropos and protect those he loves. A Lost Friend Bill's funeral is a somber affair. Ralph mourns not only the loss of his friend but also the unresolved argument. He remembers Bill's wit, his kindness, and his fear of growing old.

Summer and fall 1993

Tuesday morning, October 5, 1993

Tuesday night, October 5, 1993