Richard Rowan
Rowan is a successful writer, the protagonist of the play. Having finished a book in Rome, he returns to his homeland, Ireland. Adapting to parenthood, he brings along his common-law wife, Bertha, and their son, Archie. Unwilling to stifle her autonomy, Rowan allows her to pursue an affair with his old friend, Robert Hand. As the play progresses, Rowan becomes increasingly jealous and suspicious of Bertha. Although he has given her freedom to make her choices without consulting him, he hopes that she remains true. After Hand publishes a particularly flattering review of Rowan's book, Rowan confronts his friend and rival. No progress is made, but he returns home to make amends with his "wife." Rowan's trust and ability to become vulnerable with her are severely damaged.
Bertha
Bertha becomes enchanted by Hand's advances over dinner. After asking Rowan whether or not she should pursue his old friend, she takes matters into her own hands. Bertha's primary conflict is against herself. She cannot decide which man she desires more, but her loyalty is questionable either way. By the end of the play her fidelity is still in question, never reaching a resolution. She does, however, persuade and benefit from Rowan's forgiveness and reconciliation.
Archie Rowan
Archie is Rowan's son with Bertha. He is very young and does not play a significant role in most of the play. He is described as an illegitimate son, making his status and affiliation somewhat vague. His parents give him very little concern or attention.
Beatrice Justice
Beatrice used to date Rowan when he lived in Ireland. Now she is dating Hand, Rowan's old friend. Her reappearance in Rowan's life is marked by awkwardness. No longer interested in her, Rowan treats her with timidity and distance. Without her knowledge, Hand flirts with Bertha, making her the only character left in the dark regarding the dinner party match-making.
Robert Hand
Having spent many fond years as a confidante and drinking partner with Rowan, Hand is an old friend. Upon meeting Bertha, however, he is willing to compromise that friendship for her affections. He seduces Bertha and invites her to his home after the dinner party. Although the nature of her visit remains a mystery, she leaves under a cloud of suspicion. Hand interacts with Rowan afterward as if he has everything to prove. He even writes a flattering newspaper article about his old friend, most likely in an attempt to help him forget the potential affair of the night before. When he meets with Rowan later, Hand fabricates an elaborate story of bringing an escort home with him after visiting a bar -- not Bertha. He demonstrates a sever lack of loyalty and honesty in his treatment of Rowan.
