Part One, Chapters Four through Six Summary

The setting changes to Kent, England, and Felix Cobb has just arrived on a train. He notices that no one from his family has come to meet him, but within a short time his older brother Gabriel arrives in a car. Through the conversation between the brothers we learn that Gabriel is about to be married and Felix is supposed to be his best man.

Many relatives from the Cobb's large extended family are staying at Stackpole Manor. Gabriel and Felix decide to go to the river and swim. On their way to the river Gabriel points out the stone cottage his parents have given him and his future bride, Charis. Gabriel worries about the "Anglo-German War" he believes is approaching, but Felix says the idea is absurd. Felix says everyone is far...