Chapter 9

Conrad sat down in a leather chair. When Probyn talked of his responsibilities—the younger brother was moved to exclaim “Bosh.” He was inclined to be abrupt with Probyn, perhaps because his brother’s civic manner irritated him. There was too much clanking of gold chains. “I’ve seen the old man.” Probyn put down his pen. “Our father?” “Our reverend parent—if you like. He cut me dead.” Probyn looked shocked. “You don’t say so. But where——?” “Castle Craven. He’s ‘boots’ at a local pub. I’d turned in there for lunch wi…