The Light of Evening (35 page)

Of the many people who not only answered my questions but also encouraged me to look elsewhere, I would like to include Eilis Ni Duibhne, Criostoir Mac Carthaigh, Chris Mclver, Kevin Whelan, Niamh O’Sullivan, Bernadette Whelan, Colum McCann, Chris Kelly, Emily Stone, Mike Onorato, Ron Schweiger, Judith Walsh, Joy Holland, and Dave Smith of the New York Public Library, all of whom were tireless in their continued efforts on my behalf.

In my native County Clare, I am indebted to my nephew Michael Blake, John Howard, Paddy Ryan, a faith healer, and Gerrard Madden, who allowed me to quote from his magazine
Slieve Aughty.

Sister Maura, who befriended my mother, gave so much of her generous time. Her profound insights into the journey of death were an enlightenment to me.

I wish to thank Nadia Proudian, who typed the manuscript again and again with such meticulousness.