"I could have told him who I was and put him in his place but was loath to puncture his sense of self-importance, having had my own pricked on numerous occasions, and with more cause, by my Uncle Morgan." Chapter 1, pg. 35

"He said, 'Andrews is a curious man. Unlike many who regard succession as a right, he believes in proving himself. I find that very boring, don't you? He also believes in fate."' Chapter 1, pg. 38

"No one ever dared flirt with Wallis. Dancing with her was like holding cut glass; Hopper got it about right when he complained she made him feel he left finger marks." Chapter 1, pg. 42

"In our circle such family upsets were commonplace, but then, so was stupidity." Chapter 1, pg. 47

"'It's very kind of you,' I began, but before I could add another word she had turned away, one hand fluttering the air...