Of all the people I wished to avoid, the Honourable Peter was high on the list. Looking back now, I believe that some malignant force, some supernatural power, planted him there specifically to trap me. Unable to find adequate words, I could only stare at him as he stood in the centre of Hanover Street, leaning on an elegant gold-topped cane and smiling at me.
“Are you not talking to your old friend, Doctor?” The Honourable Peter stepped across and patted my shoulder. “Surely you have seen enough of your charming new wife by now.”
I cannot explain the transformation, except to say that it was sudden and must have flowed from the staff. The memories returned – the absolute elation when I won a hand at cards, the breathless excitement of the tables, the companionship of like-minded men, th
