CHAPTER TWENTY
Mary sat within the parlor, separated from the other women who played Commerce, ignoring their squeals of delight and upset with each swapping of the cards. She could understand why the men had removed themselves to the terrace.
Her sister, Claire, was amongst the women, happy with the gossip of her new acquaintances. From her own vantage point, an unread book held in her hands, Mary was positioned to observe the main lobby of the residence, awaiting the arrival of Doctor Polidori. The great old clock that dominated the marble foyer struck ten with chimes that reverberated throughout the house. The last chime had barely completed its final echo when the good doctor strode across the threshold. He handed his hat and cape to the manager, signed into the book of registry, and
