1915 The Bender, by Paul Scott (read 24 Mar 1985) Having just greatly enjoyed the TV presentation of the dramatization of Paul Scott's The Jewel in the Crown, I thought I should read some more--and earlier--Paul Scott. The Bender is a 1963 novel, laid in London. He writes very well, and tells a story about George Spruce, who was a dumb guy who has 400 pounds per year, the principal of which will go to his heir when he dies. George is divorced and is concerned about his niece Gillian, who is a 17-year-old existentialist. I suppose the book is not significant, but I usually found it held my interest. Of course, none of the characters are admirable--but Paul Scott's characters never are. ( )