Content Warning: The section of the guide includes discussion of racism and sexual content.

Three years have elapsed. In London, Dave is appearing in the role of Mercutio in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet in an experimental, leftist production by a touring company called Terra. Raymond Fairfield is the artistic director. Mark and Cara Hadlow come to see the show, and Cara reports that the Guardian newspaper has an enthusiastic review of the production that singles out Dave for praise.

Dave enjoys his reunion with Mark and Clara and attends a party with them at their invitation. Giles, who is rising rapidly in the world, is also there. He and Dave have nothing in common; Giles treats Dave like he is a gatecrasher. Before Dave leaves the party, he meets Chris Canvey, who recognizes him from a television show and takes an interest in him. Dave goes back to Mark and Cora’s grand house for dinner, where Mark indirectly hints that he is willing to provide funding for the theater company.