Chapter 59: Chapter 59: Prologue

BOOK TWO: FOR WANT OF A SHILLING

The Carlton Club, Pall Mall, London, England 1868

The languid haze of cigar and pipe smoke permeated the air within the luxurious lounge. Jaundiced faces of members past, of prominence and generosity graced the richly panelled walls. Framed in honour, they gazed with frozen and impassioned expressions at the Carlton Club's elite male only members. The smoke hung like a veil of secrecy, protecting schemers, hushed conspirators and overt do-gooders.

Strategically located white-gloved attendants, deaf to all except direct contact, surveyed the room like battlefield generals, anticipating and immediately responding to the needs and demands of their unpredictable charges. Against the windows, heavy drapes tied with ornate gold sashes kept vigil, guarding against repression and chill.