‘These farmers have two years after Independence to decide whether they want to become Kenya citizens.’ George ignored his wife’s request. ‘It’s risky, of course, and some will be bought out by the British government, it’s true. Then their land will be parcelled out in co-operative schemes, to the local people.’

‘Yes, but Jan and Lottie don’t want to sell,’ Camilla said. ‘And they don’t believe they would get a fair price anyway.’

‘There are disagreements about the amount of compensation being offered,’ George conceded. ‘And there are plenty of people who are angry about the large areas being marked out for compulsory purchase and redistribution – more than a million acres, in fact. Personally, I don’t believe those huge farms can be split into smallholdings and remain viable. But it will be the beginning of a new class of native landowners. That in itself may prevent violence in the future.’

‘But Hannah’s family are Boers, Daddy. What will happen to them?’

‘It’s a tricky one. Some of them may go back to South Africa, or Rhodesia perhaps. Others will apply for Kenya citizenship. But their applications might not be looked on very favourably. The Afrikaans farmers haven’t endeared themselves to either the British or the African communities over the years. They’ve never made any real attempt at integration. Rather like the Asians, although neither would relish the comparison.’

‘But could you look into the van der Beers’ situation? Find out if their property is likely to be subject to a government purchase offer? Maybe you could even meet Jan and talk to him, Daddy.’ Camilla was pleading. ‘He’s been so good to Sarah and me. Lottie is our second mother. Maybe you could ask them here next time they come to Nairobi.’

‘We can’t possibly find time to entertain your farming acquaintances, Camilla.’ Marina’s eyes were glassy bright. ‘Your father is far too heavily committed as it is. I’m sure there are official avenues, darling, and I don’t think we need to become involved.’

‘Mother, the van der Beers made my time at school into something wonderful. They treated Sarah and me like daughters. I was at home every time I went to the farm. Part of the family. A family you wouldn’t even be able to imagine.’

Marina blinked and put one hand up to her face, as though she had been slapped. ‘Your family is here, Camilla, and we have our own traditions.’

‘We’re both grateful to the van der Beers for all their hospitality and kindness to you,’ George said. ‘I’ll try to look into the situation of the farms in his area. In the meantime we should be off, Marina.’