One of the things I like about these chapters is the way Lawrie's acting ability is being signposted. She shines at the Guide Enrollment, she manages to look pale and wan before the Court of Honour, she 'mimes convincingly' and she tries to explain to the unheeding Giles and Nicola that it would be interesting to act the female villain in the film. It's all part of AF's skill in creating characters with the deftest of touches.