Summary

Chapter Five is titled “Sebastian.” George and Sabine meet their son at the airport. George is resolved not to argue with Sebastian during this visit. Sabine fawns over Sebastian from the moment of his arrival. George and Sebastian are awkward and he blames Sabine for the tension. In the car, Sebastian struggles for something to talk about with his father. George continues to think about the letters, reciting passages in his head. Their friend Irit arrives, and George is pleased that she can help them get through the evening.

The following day, Sabine and Sebastian go into town together. There are youngsters rallying in the streets, calling for an end to the crime in Trinidad. Sabine goes to the Republic Bank of Trinidad to conduct some business. She and the other white customers are kept waiting a long time. Sabine knows it's a...