Kenneth Houghton is preparing to leave civilization and Montreal for suburbia and America. The flat is being packed, the books staying stored, Valerie's beautiful French accent may be for nought, though she and Rosalyn — both still spawn of the late J. G. Ballard at heart — are (mostly) excited, and Shira will enjoy having space in the kitchen and bathroom again, even if she is exhausted. Please don't talk to her about (1) how cold it was or (2) having to learn French.