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ISBN 978-0-316-57213-2

E3-20230828-JV-NF-ORI

To my goddesses,

Lynne Corbett, Aine Kiely and Jill Prewett,

Juno, Ceres and Astarte

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When, like a running grave, time tracks you down…

Dylan Thomas

When, Like a Running Grave

It took a long time for things to go so far. It came about because things that should have been stopped were not stopped soon enough.

The I Ching or Book of Changes

<p>PROLOGUE</p>

All individuals are not equally fitted to consult the oracle. It requires a clear and tranquil mind, receptive to the cosmic influences hidden in the humble divining stalks.

Richard Wilhelm

Introduction to The I Ching or Book of Changes

Letters between Sir Colin and Lady Edensor and their son William

13 March 2012

Will,

We were appalled to learn from your personal tutor yesterday that you’ve dropped out of university and joined some kind of religious movement. We’re even more astounded that you didn’t discuss this with us, or bother to tell us where you were going.

Unless we’re being lied to by the woman who answers the phone at the headquarters of the Universal Humanitarian Church, handwritten letters are the only means of contacting members. She gave me her word that this letter would be passed to you.

Your mother and I don’t understand why you’ve done this, why you didn’t talk to us first, or what can have persuaded you to abandon your course and your friends. We’re extremely worried about you.

Please get in touch IMMEDIATELY you receive this.

Dad

16 April 2012

Darling Will,

The lady at the church headquarters says you’ve received Dad’s letter, but we still haven’t heard from you, so we’re still very worried.

We think you might be at Chapman’s Farm in Norfolk. Dad and I will be at the New Inn, Roughton, this Saturday at 1 p.m. Please, Will, come and meet us, so we can talk everything over. Dad’s been doing a bit of research on the Universal Humanitarian Church and it sounds like a very interesting organisation with worthy aims. We can certainly see why it would appeal to you.

We aren’t trying to run your life, Will, we really do just want to see you and know that you’re all right.

With lots of love,

Mum xxx

29 April 2012

Dear Will,