Papa Spy, By Jimmy Burns
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.For anyone fascinated by the Cambridge spies, this book is an unexpected bonus.
The author's Anglo-Chilean father Tom Burns was a Franco-supporting publisher dispatched to Madrid in 1940 as British press attaché to encourage Spanish neutrality. His main enemy was not Hitler but Kim Philby, head of MI6's Iberian section.
Dark machinations are punctuated by lighter moments such as the visit of Leslie Howard. Expected to "fly the British flag", he shuttled between Hollywood actress Conchita Montenegro, Gloria von Furstenberg ("glamorous Mexican wife of a German count") and a hotel beautician.
A bit part is played by Evelyn Waugh, who scorned the author's Spanish mother. She found him "repugnant, snobbish and rude".
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments