The novel is set in the small town of Barbie in Scotland during the latter part of the 19th Century. It describes the fight for survival of tyrannical Jock Gourlay, an unimaginative, dour carrier of goods, whose pride and joy is his House, the symbol of his dominance over the petty backbiters of the town.
A young successful businessman, Wilson, returns to the area and sets up shop after an absence of 15 years. The competition, coupled with the devious machinations of other local business men, has a detrimental affect on Gourlay's trade and finances.The proud haulier already has to suffer the taunts and barbs of the idlers of the town, the `bodies', and when the railway arrives it would seem to be the last nail in his commercial coffin.
However, there is always John, his son, in whose education Gourlay pins his hopes and invests his remaining savings. But John is a waster and fantasist and his neurosis starts him on the steep slope towards alcoholism.
If John fails what will become of the Gourlay name and the House with the Green Shutters?
An Assembled Stories audio production.
