Its cool air and pretty setting made it a favorite retreat for colonial families right up to the end of British rule in Jamaica in 1962.
The British loved the place because it was so scenic.
But now, as I strolled out on the lawn, still nursing a grudge against my friend's high-handedness, I saw Lawrence on the croquet lawn, aimlessly knocking a couple of very ancient balls about, with a still more ancient mallet.