planespotting

Eileen O'Reilly attempts to obtain a planespotting map from Alf Hodbin in Whitechapel to locate a friend's airfield during the Blitz in London, navigating the dangerous, bomb-damaged East End. She encounters hostility from Mrs. Hodbin and suspicion from Alf's sister Binnie, who is protective of the map and wary of Eileen's intentions. The chapter ends with an unexpected air-raid siren, heightening the tension and uncertainty of Eileen's mission.

In this chapter, Eileen experiences a false air-raid siren triggered by a parrot imitating the warning, leading to a frantic search for a shelter and a map that could help locate an airfield. She interacts with Alf and Binnie Hodbin, who are involved in scavenging and planespotting activities amidst the rubble of wartime London. Despite challenges and mistrust, Eileen obtains the map and identifies the location of Gerald's airfield, preparing to reunite with Polly and leave the city.