Publisher's Synopsis
In the 1940's, a wealthy former colonial administrator buys back the estate in the north of England where his family have lived for previous generations. Like many others in the area, this family had been heavily involved in the turbulent times of the 16th Century, when armed men known as the 'Border Reivers' were active. Hoping to impress the local gentry, he introduces sweeping changes to how the estate is managed and operated. However, much to his disappointment, all he does is alienate his workforce and earn the contempt of those he sought to impress. He fails to understand the endemic system based on mutual respect which ensured that the estate workers give unquestioning loyalty to their employer who in turn keep a benevolent eye on their welfare. Despite this, he continues to believe that he is right and that his methods will prevail. However, when a young under gardener comes to work on the estate, he problems really begin....
