First Impressions

This week's competition, in which you have to identify a book from its opening sentence, is from an Irish author who was executed:

"I have read of men who, when forced by their calling to live for long periods in utter solitude - save for a few black faces - have made it a rule to dress regularly for dinner in order to maintain their self-respect and prevent a relapse into barbarism"

* Entries, including postal address, should be sent to First Impressions, The Times Higher , Admiral House, 66-68 East Smithfield, London E1W 1BX, faxed to 020 7782 3300 or emailed to theschat@thes.co.uk

The winner receives a £25 book voucher. The closing date is June 18.

The winner of last week's competition, who identified John Buchan's The Thirty-Nine Steps , is Susheila Norman of South Petherton, Somerset.

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