Part 2, Chapter 9 Summary

Peter is spending an afternoon at work, largely alone. He reminisces on his childhood and the events that have brought him to Hong Kong, remembering his first love, Patti, of the fair hair and viola, and a Mr. Crindle. He tells Aldred about the influence Crindle had had on his life and about the money he had left to Peter upon his death in 1939. Over dinner, Aldred and Peter discuss Aldred's ex-wife, Moira, and the young Charlotte. Aldred reveals to Peter his affection for Helen and invites Peter to visit Japan to meet the Driscoll siblings.

On a visit to Stanley, and after, Aldred and Peter share experiences that remind Aldred of the book he must write. He is to describe the war and its aftermath on the people and the land. Aldred is invited to lunch with a General, and...