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1864
A fictionalized memoir written in the mid-19th century. It follows Emma Lyonna’s self-told ascent from humble beginnings into the glittering yet precarious world of London and Paris, driven by beauty, mimic talent, and romances with influential men. Early on, the narrative centers on her ties to the courteous naval officer Sir John Payne and the passionate aristocrat Harry Featherson, as she tests her power over hearts through poetry, theater, and charm. The opening of this memoir presents Emma’s candid confession of being Sir John Payne’s mistress, her life of luxury in Piccadilly, and her discovery of a compelling stage persona through Shakespeare—especially her spellbinding Ophelia and later the balcony and dawn scenes of Romeo and Juliet. A private performance brings Harry Featherson into her orbit; Emma recognizes in his voice the mysterious “Romeo” who once spoke to her unseen, and their chemistry is immediate. When Admiralty orders summon Sir John away, he magnanimously steps aside, and Emma and Harry become lovers. They plunge into a high-burnished life of salons, gambling, and Epsom races, culminating in an insult from Emma’s former schoolmates and a duel in which Harry wounds Lord Camberwell. Installed at Up-Park, they spend lavishly until creditors close in; Harry’s family forces him to India and to leave Emma, who receives only a farewell letter. Retreating to a modest cottage under an alias, she regains composure and resolves to return to London to reclaim what she can—arriving at the Piccadilly house just as she unexpectedly meets her old ally Amy Strong at the door.
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