The Perfume of Eros · Chapters

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Chapter companions for The Perfume of Eros by Edgar Saltus.

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Chapter 1
The Facts in the Case
This chapter presents the factual account of the events surrounding the murder of Royal Loftus and the subsequent trial of Arthur Annandale. It details the relationships, deceptions, and key incidents that led to the tragedy, including Loftus's pursuit of Marie Durand, Annandale's engagement to Sylvia Waldron and his meeting with Fanny, and the eventual accusations and trial.
Chapter 2
I: A Man of Fashion
The chapter introduces Royal Loftus, a wealthy, handsome man of fashion, and his social circle in Gilded Age New York. At a dinner party, Loftus's mother questions his interest in Fanny Price, but he is preoccupied with Marie Durand, a woman from another sphere. The dinner features witty banter, a séance prediction by Melanchthon Orr, and flirtations between Annandale and Sylvia Waldron, and Loftus and Fanny Price. The chapter establishes themes of social class, marriage, and deception.
Chapter 3
II: The Pocket Venus
Fanny and Sylvia discuss Fanny's hat and Sylvia's upcoming marriage to Annandale. Fanny jokes about her debts and Loftus. Annandale arrives and invites them to lunch at Sherry's, where they encounter Orr and Loftus. Loftus flirts with Fanny, and they exchange witty barbs. The chapter highlights the social dynamics and flirtations among the group.
Chapter 4
The Ex-First Lady
Loftus reflects on his pursuit of Marie Durand, a young, impressionable girl he spotted on Fifth Avenue. He follows her home and, through a series of deceptions involving an apothecary and Mme. Machin, arranges an introduction. He declares his love for her, overwhelming the naive Marie, who is both startled and captivated by his attention.
Chapter 5
Enchantment
Loftus visits Mme. Machin's den, where he pays her and waits for Marie. When Marie arrives, he professes his love and asks her to be his wife. Marie, though hesitant and fearful of the social and moral implications, is overwhelmed by his declarations and promises. Loftus persuades her to trust him, swearing before God and man that she shall be his wife. Marie, enchanted by the dream he presents, surrenders to his embrace, choosing faith over her fears.

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The Facts in the Case

I: A Man of Fashion

II: The Pocket Venus

The Ex-First Lady

Enchantment