Afternoon Reading - The National Short Story Award 2008 - The People on Privilege Hill

Sir Edward Feathers QC is cold and old and going out to lunch with a woman called Dulcie, who he’d never much liked. Trudging up to Privilege House in the pouring rain, he is joined by his fellow judges Veneering and Fiscal-Smith. As they shake out their umbrellas in the conservatory, it becomes apparent that Dulcie has invited a horde, although the mysterious – and elusive – guest of honour is not among them. By Jane Gardam Read by Geoffrey Palmer