Close to the drinks table stood Mr. Samuel Griffith and observed the festivities. He was tall and tastefully dressed and appeared to belong to this exclusive party both by his looks and slightly ominous airs, but was not exactly part of the guest list. The recent descent of the Griffiths both in fortune and purity would not allow it.
However, a gentleman of note was determined to make Mr. Griffith his best friend and had brought him along, likely hoping to lower the egregious sum the alchemist had quoted him for a flying marble steed that the fellow much desired as a gift for his daughter.
Mr. Griffith had no intention of ever making this marble pegasus, but he was satisfied enough to be at the soirée.

Miss Ginevra Blackwood would only look upon his sharp profile when she adressed him, since he had noticed her but had not planned to initiate conversation and had turned slightly away.
When spoken to, however, he reconsidered and turned towards her.
“Was it? To Mr. Alderton, isn’t that right?”
He smiled.
“I dare not guess. I hope to have some business with the family. You may be better informed. What do you think to be the cause, Miss?”
It was inappropriate for his social rank to be too forward with gossip with an upperclass woman he just met. She would have to take the lead on that, if she so desired.
“I am Mr. Griffith. At your service.”, he introduced himself with a slight bow.