A Marvellous Light

Robin and Edwin take a train to Penhallick. Once they are alone in the compartment, Robin asks Edwin about the estate, and, more pointedly, why he works a bureaucratic job. Edwin explains that it was a kind of family favor, concealing that his father coerced him into taking the post. Edwin asks Robin the same question. Robin reluctantly admits he needs the salary since his father’s death.

Edwin realizes he has committed a social faux pas, but before he can bring up a less fraught topic, Robin is obviously seized by pain from the curse. Edwin is upset when he learns that this has happened to Robin before, but he agrees to change the subject, so Robin discusses Maud. Edwin realizes, when Robin mentions his father’s full name, that he has heard of Robin’s parents after all, because of their role as prominent philanthropists and gossips. He recognizes Robin’s discomfort as akin to his own strained family situation.

Edwin reluctantly offers the use of his first name and pretends that his family also calls him “Edwin.” He does not reveal that his brother physically bulled him so he no longer resists unwanted nicknames. Robin explains that his own family gave him that name to avoid confusion with his father.