Marble floors, silk curtains, a gilded harpsichord, and furnishings of fine quality . . . M. Gandt has done well for himself, has he not? Curious, since he claims not to have a sou to his name. Perhaps he has other means of which we know nothing?

I have been wondering about this, Lorsagne. Why would a man claim poverty when it is obvious he is not poor? This makes me consider male motivations for my next novel. What are your thoughts?

One cannot help but wonder if M. Gandt made the acquaintance ofLord Sidney Beauclerk? Both gentlemen are English. Perhaps they employ the same methods to advance themselves. You, dear lady, are an Englishwoman and a host of contacts in your native land who would like nothing more than to delve into this mystery, yes? I am certain your contacts will know the families of some of the ladies of good family, position and wealth that he persuaded to name him as their heir. Doubtless, the families of these women--both living and those who are no longer of this earth--have much to say about a man who would ingratiate himself with a woman for the purpose of relieving her of her money.

As ever,

Lorsagne

Once again, I find that I am more naive than I like to believe. Such thoughts had never even occurred to me. One does wonder how I became a novelist, so limited being my imagination. There is a reason I write of the lives of young English women.

If you believe it would be productive and prudent to make inquiries at home about Mr. Gandt, Iam prepared to do so. A word from you is all it will take to bring my pen to life.

he is a scoundrel, I tell you. I have heard such stories.......