The Vichys-husband and wife political analysts-kept a gorgeous, nineteenth century villa in the country. The manor's elegant turrets and borders and gray limestone facade reminded Allie of a surreal castle where the heroine resided in some Gothic novel. If only Sir Wilfred had been a few years younger, she mused, he could play my hero-in the right lighting, of course.
She brought the requisite number of outfits, both formal and informal wear to cover candlelit dinners, horseback riding, hiking, and just general frivolity. The Vichys had invited several other couples, two bachelors, an unattached debutante and Sir Wilfred. Allie dispensed with the bachelors and kept her attentions focused on the ambassador, who knew their hosts quite well. Thus, she struck up a friendship with Francoi
