Chapter 3Joshua was standing by the wall in the glittering main room of the gaming club. If he peered into the room, he could espy Frank’s distinctive queue of long dark hair, those broad shoulders framed by a sober-coloured coat contrasting with all the powdered and painted peacocks who subscribed to current fashion.
Since he was on duty, Joshua had to focus on the comfort of the florid clientele, pouring them countless drinks as they handled the cards with plump be-ringed fingers, casually losing fortunes at Quadrille or Faro that would keep an ordinary family fed and clothed for a lifetime. When Joshua got the chance to glance in Frank’s direction, he had already departed, having spent a scant half-hour at the tables to confer with one grandee or another.
Uncle Samuel had mentioned to
