There was always work to be done at Pearly’s business. Even as he dealt with valuations, open homes, leases and common access, however, one part of his mind debated his role in Gumbo’s accident. Gumbo himself would never make the accusation, and there was no basis at all for legal accountability. Andrew and Stephen were aware of his part in the accident, but it was his own sense of culpability that was more troubling. Pearly was accustomed to having an excellent opinion of himself and one reinforced at least in part by the view of many of those around him, but growing regret concerning the letter to Deidre Utterspan, the contrast of his own abilities with those of Andrew Nisse and the fall of Gumbo threatened his self-esteem. And there was the foul-mouthed stranger on the phone who seemed to represent some sinister disposition. ‘What’s going on lately?’ Pearly asked himself and had no answer. He opened his drawer and took a couple of the giant Jaffas from the stock there, but they gave only passing and physical solace. He was pleased to have the distraction of the almost simultaneous arrival of his partner and receptionist, noting automatically and with satisfaction that both were ahead of the stroke of nine. He was rarely present himself early enough to witness such punctiliousness. He went into the outer office with a Jaffa for each of them, and talked of the marquee dinner and Gumbo’s misfortune. It was a version that least troubled his conscience, although he wasn’t aware of that as his intention.

Kylie was intrigued by Pearly’s mention of Andrew Nisse. ‘I read all about that guy,’ said Kylie. ‘Is that how his name’s pronounced, not like missy or nice?’

‘Yes,’ Pearly told her. ‘Like the French city or in nephew and niece.’

‘Who would’ve thought someone from here would go overseas and become an aristocrat, like on Downton Abbey?’

‘Being knighted doesn’t necessarily mean you’re an aristocrat,’ answered Pearly.

‘You’re born an aristocrat, aren’t you?’ said Anne. She was checking the real estate columns in the community newspaper as they talked.

‘Yeah, well Andrew’s family certainly weren’t anything special,’ said Pearly.

‘I want to thank you,’ said Kylie. ‘I’ve already talked to Anne.’ It was a sudden change in the conversation, and Pearly couldn’t think of any reason for it, but Anne, standing behind Kylie, mouthed ‘The raise’ with exaggerated lip movements and a nod of her head. ‘It’s such a help. It’s very kind of you,’ continued Kylie.