Those of you who are not familiar with Wagner will underestimate the extent of Madison’s tormented emotions. Whereas Mozart and Rossini are usually good-humoured fun, with a bit of harmless suspense thrown in, Wagner is the equivalent of a protracted tragic identity crisis. It summons the full range of painful emotions in a most ungermanic… Continue reading Chapter XXXV – Wagnerian Distress
I have come to the conclusion that I am rather good at deductions. This may come as a surprise to some. Indeed, in general, my grasp of mathematics is rather tenuous. To me, arithmetic might as well be a collection of Arabic numerals. Some, although they would be uncharitable, would say that the level of… Continue reading Chapter XXXIII – Deductions
I have been made aware, through experience in Mayfair’s thirsty circles, and by attending the odd Noel Coward play in the West End, that when it comes to cocktail parties there are two camps. One claims they are the worse form of entertainment. A sort of alcohol fueled networking contest with the challenge of balancing… Continue reading Chapter XXX – An American Hen Party
I am certain the seasoned reader is familiar with the expression descend into laughter. I believe I have used it on numerous occasions, and it is one of Ypres’s favourites. Well, it does not do justice to Cousin Andrew’s reaction to the news that part of Ypres’s plan was to organise a bachelorette party at… Continue reading Chapter XXIX – Descent Into Laughter
“You will not believe what that man said, Ypres!” I closed the door to the flat behind me. Instead of Ypres’s familiar maritime face, I was confronted with Cousin Andrew in one of his more spectacular suits. Indeed, it was so spectacular that I had to do a double take, prompting him to languidly turn… Continue reading Chapter XXVIII – Thrift Shop
Jotting down my recollections, safe in the comfort of the Park Lane flat, overlooking the better part of Mayfair, I have doubts about the title of this chapter: Ypres reveals all. It could be seen as a detailed account of Ypres exposing herself. Of course, she would never do that. Ypres does not really reveal… Continue reading Chapter XXVI – Ypres Reveals All
Vasa and Ypres 