Following the break-in, Victor resolved not to replace the television, hoping it would afford him and Margaret a greater chance of escape. Yet, a visit to the local pub led to a disquieting encounter with a friend from years past.

A persistent dream haunts Margaret: she envisions herself committing a violent act against someone who resembles Victor. Ironically, it is Margaret who is increasingly becoming a source of annoyance for him. This shifts, however, when she v…

Alfred, Victor’s brother and a man perpetually beset by misfortune, is returning from New Zealand after a quarter-century. Victor anticipates the visit with a degree of reluctance, finding more satisfaction in his role as a neighborhood wat…

The Meldrews and Mrs. Warboys found themselves caught in the Bank Holiday congestion.

Swainey returned from his trip with a gift for Victor—a charm reputed to bring ill luck. Victor felt Mrs. Stebbings’s television antenna was somehow mocking him, a silent observer of his recent string of misfortunes. Elsewhere, Patrick and …

Nothing seems to ruffle Victor’s composure now that a new job is within reach; not even a shed collapsing upon him. Yet, before he can begin his work, he must first endure an unwelcome intrusion and a visit to the BBC arranged by Mrs. Warbo…