Mrs. Murphy is the matron of the ladies’ boardinghouse where Miss Larsen lives in the town of Hemingford, Minnesota. Originally from Ireland, Mrs. Murphy is a widow. She takes in Vivian/Niamh and, with the help of Miss Larsen, helps her to find a safe permanent home. Mrs. Murphy is opinionated, authoritative, and warm. She is a good cook and runs an efficient house. She is especially gentle and generous with Vivian/Niamh, who she calls “Niamh.”