The tale of Richard's week since his last session is as usual lamentable and laughable, but he has begun to reconsider his condition and has alarming news for Martha.

Richard has almost given up trying to find favour on the front bench and it seems preferment of any kind is now beyond his reach. He seeks friendship at a book club, but hasn't bothered reading the books.

However, Richard does rediscover something about the immutable nature of true love. And he seems determined to impart what he has discovered to the somewhat alarmed, Martha.