Chapters 9 - 12 Summary

In Chapter 9, Inspector Lynley and Sergeant Havers arrive back in Keldale only to witness Nigel Parrish having an argument with a young man. Lynley learns from Parrish that they young man is none other than Ezra Farmington. Parrish lies about the source of his vehement disagreement with Ezra. Parish, a former prep school music teacher, has lived at Rose Cottage for a number of years. Lynley is convinced that Parrish is hiding something. Upon his return to Keldale Lodge, Lynley learns that Stepha Odell has booked Lynley at Keldale Hall for dinner. Somehow, Stepha knows that Lynley and Havers had been to see Roberta Teys at Barnstingham.

Havers is not at all pleased to be having dinner at Keldale Hall. She is convinced that she will be surrounded by members of Lynley's elevated social class. However, when Mrs. Burton-Thomas answers the...