Prologue
Dearest Readers
It would appear as though the rumours are true.
Sir A. D’s pockets are well and truly to let.
While the beleaguered baron and his long-suffering wife Lady C have been desperately keeping up a charade of wealth, we have heard ever-increasing stories of servants being let go, and the family silver turning up in disreputable establishments in the wrong side of Town.
One can only assume that Sir A’s penchant for gambling has finally led to his demise.
It has been said that the family will remain in London for Christmastide rather than returning to their comfortable country seat in Essex.
Can it be that the baron can no longer afford to run two homes? This writer certainly thinks so.
And one can only wonder as to what will become of the man’s two daughters. Will their dowries survive this shocking change in circumstances? Will their names survive the humiliation? And will their mother ever be able to marry them off now?
With both ladies out, it would be prudent for Lady C to try to bring at least one gentleman to heel. And it’s no secret that the eldest girl has caught the eye of the rather dashing and obscenely wealthy Lord F.
The man’s reputation isn’t exactly spotless, of course. And no self-respecting mama would want her daughter attached to a man whose penchant for opera singers, and dancers is legendary.
But then, one supposes, beggars cannot be choosers.
What’s to become of them all?
As soon as we have an answer to these questions, so will you.