Alderman Crewe

Town leader, magistrate, keeper of order. Grey-haired, straight-backed, speaks in measured tones. Has led Thornwick for fifteen years and shows every year of it.

What he shows: dedication to the town's safety and prosperity. Won't tolerate troublemakers. Rides the North Road at odd hours, "on town business."

What he tells people: his daughter Elspeth is "visiting family in the south."