So I am a bit further on with The Law and the Lady and Valeria has now found out what Eustace's appalling secret is.

I am still struggling with the hero being called Eustace. His real name is Eustace Macallan too, and since part of the plot revolves around Scottish law I assume he is of Scots descent.

And I don't feel that Eustace is really a name that goes with Macallan. I visit a lot of Victorian graveyards here in Scotland and I see a lot of William, Robert, Murdo etc but *not* Eustace.

Also, Eustace, in spite of being the hero, looks prematurely aged, is bald, and has a long beard and moustache. AHEM WILKIE COLLINS LOOKALIKE.

I'm not saying I'm not enjoying the book because I totally am. The Major is hilarious if a bit dodgy. But, if they have wifi in the afterlife and Wilkie Collins has access to it, I want you to know that you're busted big time, sweetie.

Also, a quick round of applause for Murdo, which is one of my favourite Scottish names, but does not appear in the book.

In retrospect perhaps I should have called my only son Murdo. I must tell him this, next time we speak, and see what he says.