The Dangerous Duke

“Ooh, what a catch,” she cackled quietly to herself, “the Duke of Wyndlesham frequenting my establishment. He don’t look too happy to me with such a Friday-face on him. I wonder what’s happened with that cold icicle Penelope Vane.”

Madame Cybille, who ran the Cygnet Club and acted as manageress and chaperone to the nubile Cygnets, prided herself on her clientele. Most were, like the Duke, exceptionally plump in the pocket and nothing was too much trouble for her guests. The Cygnet Club accommodated all gentlemen’s sexual tastes, however exotic. The Cygnets were, of course, very attractive young ladies, who “assisted” the players by plying them with drink. Sometimes a lucky gamester, for a considerable token of appreciation, could escort a beautiful Cygnet upstairs for further pleasures. Madame Cybille preened herself as she nodded in his direction. With a discreet wave of a plump, beringed hand, she indicated one of her prettier Cygnets who appeared willing to lure the Duke into a warm embrace.