Page 130

Edward shakes his head in wonderment. “They thought of you to the very end.”

Beside him, Dora takes a deep shaking breath.

“Shall we?” he says, taking her hand.

And together, as one, they step inside.

London

June 1799

Dear Mr. Lawrence,

As Director of The Society of Antiquaries, I am desired by the President, to return you their Thanks for your Communication of A Studie of a Grecian Pithos on Friday evening last 14th. Another paper in addition to the one initially agreed upon was not expected and though the subject matter, in parts, digresses into speculative fancy, I am pleased to inform you that this paper, as well as your most excellent accompanying paper titled Forgeries and Black-Market Custom within the Antiquity Trade, has been accepted, and therefore your entrance to the Society has been successful, with votes a most healthy 30 to 5, and wish to congratulate you on your election to the Society as a new and respected member of our ranks.

The accompanying drawings in relation to the subject of your first paper are particularly impressive. We encourage your continued partnership with your fiancée Miss Pandora Blake for all future works, and look forward to seeing what you will contribute to the Society in the coming years. The Society think themselves much obliged to all who assist in promoting the useful purpose of advancing Science, for which they are incorporated, and I am

Sir

With much Respect

Your most Obedient humble Servt.

Somerset PlaceRichard Gough

19th June 1799