Despite her nervousness about telling Julian everything concerning her inheritance of Orsbrick Hall and the sightings of the strange woman in the purple shawl, she felt relieved that his reaction was not disbelief but a serious and practical reflection on the whole matter and a desire to help her further solve the mystery and get Orsbrick Hall back into shape. Julian suggests a pleasant pub by the canal to have lunch which he had not been to for many years. But when they arrive, Victoria is amazed to learn that her pub visit had not only already been anticipated but more startling who she discovers there when she walks in.