This, the third of four novels to feature Wodehouse's delightful creation Frederick Altamont Cornwallis, fifth Earl of Ickenham, better known as Uncle Fred, begins with a catapult and a brazil nut. The target of this appalling assault is his wife's half-brother, barrister and stuffed-shirt, Sir Raymond Bastable. Under the impression that the assault was carried out by a member of the debauched younger generation, Sir Raymond begins to ruminate on this modern scourge, and sets out to denounce the modern feckless youth in the form of a novel, "Cocktail Time", which becomes a huge success. Fearing the scandal that might ensue if its true provenance were known, however, he has the book published under the name of Cosmo, his nephew. A letter revealing the true authorship is sought by one of Wodehouse's cast of villains, Oily Carlisle. In order to spread his customary sweetness and light, Uncle Fred must ensure it doesn't fall into Oily's hands, while also ensuring that the right couples end up together: the happiness of his godson, Jimmy, depends upon this, as does that of both Sir Raymond himself, and his butler, Peasemarch.
Written in 1958, when Wodehouse was seventy-seven, "Cocktail Time" finds Wodehouse still at the height of his powers. As well as being the third appearance in his novels of this chirpiest of Wodehouse creations, Uncle Fred, we also meet some more old friends. Peasemarch, now a butler, was previously a ship's steward in "The Luck of the Bodkins", and the criminal double-act of Oily and Sweetie Carlisle previously appeared in "Hot Water". Uncle Fred, like Psmith before him, is one of Wodehouse's most glorious creations, and this is a fine, witty novel with all the verbal dexterity and rich plot-twists that all Wodehouse fans have grown to love.
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