
This is the first day in which the main characters are imaginatively drawn.  Sam a young man, or an old lad, living with his sister Meg Carroll (just until things get sorted out (or not)) and Alice - Megs daughter.
Miss Carroll has been selected to receive a special Advent Calender to be picked up at Hamley's on 30th November.  And guess who the letter is signed from??? ohhh I can't spoil that.  But here is a little just to wet the appitite:
'What on earth has an Advent Calendar got to do with religion?' thought Sam, on the way to the pub.  [...]'Beats me, 
Sadvent more like.'  [...]
Bowler-hat man came back and stood behind a low counter.  Between them was a large brown parcel, tied with string.
'Here it is sir, all ready for you.  The Advent Calendar.  I hope you like it.'
[...]
'There must be lots of chocolate in there!'
'Oh, I doubt it sir, I doubt it, although you can never be quite sure.'