Hello Bernard, You are my favorite author – followed by no less than Tolkien, Rowling, Forester, and OBrian. I am aware that Im a bit daft, but am trying to determine to what degree. The image and voice of Nathaniel Starbuck pops into my head whenever I read of Thomas of Hookton. When I read of Nicholas Hook, another image pops into my head. Im not quite sure of whom, but it is not Thomas. For some reason, a version of you pops into my head when I read of Lord Slayton. Therefore, I have two questions: (1) When you write, do you attach voices and imagines to your characters when you are creating them? (2) Did you perceive as Thomas and Nick as being two distinctly different characters (despite their similar occupations and adventures), or were they based on each other? Best regards, Steve Rose