Pleased to have won his concession, Lambert will do as he’s bid, but not before he leans in to give Childermass a swift, fleeting kiss. Out here, that dark night is easier to forget, and Lambert would like nothing more. He moves away to give Childermass room, unwilling to be knocked off by a stray wing, and waits.

“Go on then.” Well, waits not very patiently. No doubt that’s predictable, too.