Chapter 5 Summary

Gerald enters from a tennis match with Badger Brogan. They banter about who actually won, with Gerald twisting rules to prove himself the victor. The Feddens are having a dinner party, and Nick is the thirteenth guest when Catherine bows out. Toby and Sophie attend, and there are two Members of Parliament, Barry Groom and John Timms, with their wives. During dinner they discuss politics, while Nick charmingly makes small talk and observes the room. Elena, the housekeeper, serves venison that Gerald hunted at Hawkeswood. Leo phones during the evening, and Rachel tells Nick that Leo is welcome anytime. Brentford, the min-cab driver with whom Catherine has been social, brings an upset Catherine home. Everyone goes to the door as Barry starts yelling at Brentford. Nick yells at Barry to "shut up," which Catherine seconds. Nick immediately apologizes to Barry, who only responds...