The excuse of an opera engagement couldn't have been more convenient. That very night, the Royal Academy was hosting an extraordinary performance. Levasseur, recovering from a serious illness, was making his comeback in the role of Bertram. The announcement had drawn a glittering crowd of high society, everyone who was anyone would be there.
Like most wealthy young men of his social circle, Morcerf had his own reserved seat in the orchestra section. He could always find space in at least a dozen premium boxes occupied by friends and acquaintances, plus he had access to the shared VIP box. Château-Renaud rented the seat next to his, while Beauchamp, working as a journalist, could go anywhere in the theater he pleased.
