The news of the death of Jeffrey Archer at 86 came in somehow typical circumstances. The bestselling novelist, Conservative peer and all-round reprobate was hard on the publicity trail for Adam and Eve, which he was calling his final book, although, typically, he was leaving the door ajar for future literary endeavors. Apparently his “sudden and peaceful” death came between writing sessions at his Westminster penthouse – a home where, at his famous Krug and shepherd’s pie parties, he liked to show guests the views over the Thames that Monet had once painted.

Lord Archer somehow lived larger than everyone else in his orbit, or indeed any comparable figure in public life

Lord Archer somehow lived larger than everyone else in his orbit, or indeed any comparable figure in public life

Lord Archer somehow lived larger than everyone else in his orbit, or indeed any comparable figure in public life. He made Jeremy Thorpe look somehow timid. His political career was ultimately undistinguished. His much sought-for berth as Mayor of London never happened, despite a great deal of comparison, put about by himself, as being the Dick Whittington of our times. He surprised many, while he was a Conservative MP, for continually backing causes........

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