―Isn’t he a cousin of Bloom the dentist? says Jack Power.

―Not at all, says Martin. Only namesakes. His name was Virag. The father’s name that poisoned himself. He changed it by deedpoll, the father did.

―That’s the new Messiah for Ireland! says the citizen. Island of saints and sages!

―Well, they’re still waiting for their redeemer, says Martin. For that matter so are we.

―Yes, says J. J. , and every male that’s born they think it may be their Messiah. And every jew is in a tall state of excitement, I believe, till he knows if he’s a father or a mother.

―Expecting every moment will be his next, says Lenehan.