Winner of a Somerset Maugham Award 1997 A stunning novel of political life, betrayal and passion, which lifts the lid on vice within the Palace of Westminster!and cost Hensher his job as a House of Commons clerk. John is a distinguished widower with a hump, two daughters, and an important job in the House of Commons. He also has a fondness for visiting rent boys in the afternoons, and a passion for secrecy!