"Late and Soon" (1943) - It is the story of Valentine Arbell, a widowed chatelaine and her two daughters living in a large country house. One of her daughters, Primrose has an affair with Valentine's former admirer Rory, but Rory rekindles his passion for Valentine. Set against the backdrop of imminent second World War in 1942, each character has to face a difficult decision that will change their lives forever. Along with 8 other short stories this edition shows the more evolved side of the author E. M. Delafield. E. M. Delafield (1890-1943) was a prolific English author who is best known for her largely autobiographical works like Zella Sees Herself, The Provincial Lady Series etc. which look at the lives of upper-middle class Englishwomen. TABLE OF CONTENTS NOVEL Late and Soon SHORT STORIES The Bond of Union Lost in Transmission Time Work Wonders The Hotel Child The Gallant Little Lady Impasse The Appeal The Philistine: A Story