Part 3, Chapter 17 Summary

It is the spring of 1948 and the eve of another war. Aldred leaves Asia for home, understanding that there is unrest in Russia, Korea, and China. Arriving in post-war London, he renews his acquaintance with the city during a ride to his apartments and again later, on foot.

Aldred also arranges to meet Aurora Searle for dinner, and they share a meal and memories of Aldred's father. Aurora recounts the last time she saw Oliver Leith and tells about a few of the times when her affair had taken her to the Leith estate, in Aldred's mother's absence; Aurora grieves for Oliver. Aldred considers Aurora to be a friend. He wants to tell her about Helen but recognizes that this is Aurora's time of need, and he remains silent. Aurora lets Aldred know that she will be leaving for Kenya soon...