Honorable men

In this psychological novel, Auchincloss explores the circumstances under which the richest and socially secure come to grief over the moral issues of our times. Chip Benedict and Alida Struthers serve as narrators of this internalized biographical tale that covers their lives from after World War I to the 1960s. Both come from a background of wealth, power, and social standing. Shortly before entering law school, Chip marries Alida, a pale beauty with the cunning and talent to become debutante of the year. Chip is called to serve in World War II, returns a hero decorated for bravery at the Normandy landing, and becomes chairman of the board of the Benedict Glass Company. In business, he becomes the perfect executive, serves his community, supports the arts and honors his government. But when it comes to choosing sides on the Vietnam issue, he makes a decision that casts aside the deepest ties and loyalties of his life. ISBN 0-395-38812-0 : $15.95.