Mortimer, author of the great classic English comedy series Rumpole Of The Bailey, gives us two very fine, whimsical but truthful comic novels set around the time of Thatcherism. His host of characters, from the protest-marching vicar and his family through the self-obsessed successful politician and the squirearchy he loathes but wants to become, give Mortimer the opportunity to paint many character portraits with his usual insight and humour. How could anyone not enjoy this two-novel delight? ( )