Susan in NC’s Reviews > Affairs at Thrush Green > Status Update

“ There was already a chill in the air at dawn and dusk. Dimity had lit the fire in the drawing room on several recent evenings. Far too soon the curtains would be drawn at tea time, and the long dark nights would be upon them. Not that Charles was wholly sad at the prospect. There was something remarkably satisfying about the domestic side of winter.”

“Fear nothing! Thank God! The first two words took care of the unknown future. The last two covered past mercies received. The rector turned the four words over in his mind, and was strengthened and comforted.”

“‘I wouldn’t support Frances Thurgood on any of her projects, on principle. Of all the bossy, scheming, devious bullies I have met, she takes the biscuit.’ ‘Ella, please!’ protested Charles, holding up a plump hand, i don’t like to hear you speak so ill of anyone.’ ‘You wouldn’t,’ agreed Ella. ‘You’re far too tolerant. And if you really want me to speak ill, I can do a lot better than that.’”

“ There was a great deal to be said for living in a close community, mused the good rector. Irritating though it was at times to find that one had little or no privacy, yet when death or disaster struck how comforting to have the support of friends and relations close at hand.”