Frank Bennett's life was changed forever by his spontaneous decision to reply to an advertisement for the Colonial Service. Knowing little about the Service and where he might be sent, Bennett accepted the opportunity to serve his country in the twilight of imperialism. By fate, Bennett found himself as a junior clerk in the Ministry of Finance in Northern Rhodesia (modern Zambia). Written with verve and enjoyable humour, this is a gentle and humorous portrait of colonial government and the lifestyles of its officers.