It emerges that Michael's leaving was the thing which broke Tom's heart the most. At the end of the play Michael leaves the pub and the town, telling JJ's daughter, who seems to represent a kind of hope in the play, to pass on his love to JJ.
Michael's departure was the most painful event for Tom, who felt deeply affected by it. At the conclusion of the play, Michael departs the pub and town, instructing JJ's daughter, who symbolizes a glimmer of hope in the play, to convey his affection to JJ.