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Maria
A middle-aged, unmarried woman and the text’s protagonist. She is a gentle, soft-spoken person who works as a maid at a Protestant charity that houses troubled women.
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Joe Donnelly
A close family friend of Maria's and the host of the Hallow Eve party. Maria was Joe and his brother Alphy’s nurse when they were children.
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Mrs. Donnelly
Joe’s wife and a pianist. She, along with Maria, tries to keep the party running smoothly.
Alphy Donnelly
Joe’s estranged brother. The two brothers were close in their youth but have since had a falling out. Alphy is mentioned several times but never makes an appearance in the text.
The Man on the Tram
A polite older man who offers Maria a seat on the tram. The two of them have a pleasant conversation while they ride which flusters Maria, causing her to forget the plum cake she had bought for Joe and his wife.
The Girls from Next Door
Two older girls who are invited to the party. They are the ones who set up the game that results in Maria drawing the death omen.
The Woman at the Bakery
The woman who works behind the counter at the bakery who becomes annoyed when Maria takes a long time to select a cake. She coldly asks if she is looking for a wedding cake which draws attention to Maria’s unmarried state and embarrasses her.
