How Late It Was, How Late

Sammy is once again in prison, though this time the authorities are interrogating him about his activities. The reader finds out that aside from drinking with his friends, Sammy might have been involved in illegal political activities. However, it is unclear whether Sammy is involved in these activities or whether the blame falls on his friends.

The policemen also interrogate Sammy regarding Helen, his missing girlfriend. They suggest that there may be allegations about Sammy being the cause of her disappearance. However, Sammy’s internal dialogue indicates that he feels only affection toward her and that he is truly worried about her disappearance. The narrative implies that the policemen are threatening Sammy with an unfounded claim regarding Helen’s disappearance.

The grueling interrogation continues, and Sammy is handcuffed for a long time. When he is released into his cell, he experiences great pain and discomfort. He is unable to sleep, and his thoughts become more erratic. He is sharing his cell with another man, Davie, who is also being interrogated. Sammy is suspicious of the man and thinks that he might be a police informant.

The policemen use abusive language toward Sammy, deriding his loss of vision.