When William Came

"When William Came" by Saki is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story seems to emerge in a surreal, alternate world where Germany has successfully invaded Britain, leading to a significant societal and political shift. The central character around whom the early narrative revolves is Cicely Yeovil, a woman navigating her relationships and ambitions within this dramatically altered landscape. The opening of the novel introduces Cicely Yeovil and her companion Ronnie Storre as they discuss her returning husband, Murrey, who has just come back from abroad after the war's onset. The atmosphere is charged with tension as Cicely contemplates Murrey's potential disapproval of her interactions with Ronnie amid the complex new norms surrounding them. She expresses concerns about Murrey's mindset upon returning, as he may struggle to understand the changes that have unfolded in London and the way society has adjusted to the German occupation. The dialogue suggests both a personal and social conflict as the characters grapple with their circumstances, setting the stage for exploration of relationships under unusual and difficult conditions while establishing a backdrop of political turmoil.