Most institutions have their resident bore: the man who is at his happiest when he is given free rein to collar an audience and to keep a tight hold until he has satisfied himself that another life has been enriched by the fruits of his experience and wisdom. Such a man is Mr. Melluish. He occupies a chair by the fireplace in the masters' common room at Linton House preparatory school and he regards it as his mission in life to offer comfort and advice...