On his deathbed, Kevin told Father Declan that he must tell him the reason why he and Enda never got married. Fearing Declan will be angry with Enda, Kevin makes him swear to stand by her. Immediately after Father Declan swears the oath, Kevin cries out the word “God” and suffers a seizure that leaves him unable to speak.

Recognizing that Kevin’s death is imminent, Father Declan fetches Enda from the cattle-fold. She asks if Kevin told their story, but the priest explains that the seizure prevented him. Inside, Enda kneels beside Kevin’s bed but does not touch him. As Kevin lies dying, Father Declan begins to administer Kevin’s last rights.

Minutes after Kevin’s death, Enda pleaded with Father Declan to publish a death notice that falsely identifies her as Kevin’s wife. Father Declan refused, calling it a lie and a furtherance of their sin, as they were never married. Enda insisted they had a reason for not marrying, and she intends to tell him the full story.

Father Declan urged her to make a formal confession, but she refused. She begged him to print the notice, promising he would understand everything once she explains. She agreed to any penance Declan feels necessary.