The Shadow of Great Britain

354: Chapter 215 The Elegant Connoisseurs of the 19th Century (5K6)_3 354: Chapter 215 The Elegant Connoisseurs of the 19th Century (5K6)_3 Arthur took off his hat and placed it beside the table, he certainly knew what Sir Peel was referring to as a “record.”

However, what was recorded wasn’t music, but a private conversation at a banquet between Representative Bernie Harrison and George Norton, this “philanthropic” husband.

Of course, to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings, Arthur had done some editing.

Thus, the recording Sir Peel heard was limited to the conspirators speaking about the past affairs of Viscount Melbourne, the Home Secretary, and Lady Norton.

Yet, this information was already enough for him, who was dedicated to reunifying the Tory Party.

Arthur added a lump of sugar to his coffee, “Your Excellency, are you satisfied with my new piece?

That said, you might not know, but I am actually rather shy, and I dare not present my new works for others to listen to.

For one thing, many of my friends lack the capacity for artistic appreciation.

Secondly, they lack influence, so whether they speak well or ill of it, it cannot represent the mainstream public opinion, thus lacking reference value.”

“That’s why I thought to offer you an exclusive first listening.

Not only do you have experience and discerning taste, but you also represent the artistic preferences of Britain’s old-school gentlemen and are at the forefront of observing Britain’s new trends.

If you think the piece is good, it means it truly is.

If you think it’s bad, then surely it will go unnoticed if released.

I would like to apologize for presuming to bother you with such an inconsequential matter.”

Upon hearing this, Peel first savored the key words in Arthur’s speech, and naturally, what he cared most about was that he was the first to listen to the album.

Peel smiled and raised a hand, signaling Arthur not to worry, “Arthur, although I don’t have the taste you speak of, I’d be willing to share some of my superficial views if you’d care to hear them.

As you know, I’ve always enjoyed offering advice to the younger generation.”

Arthur, smiling, nodded in response, “You know, I have always liked to accept the advice of others.”

Sir Peel laughed heartily and said, “Of course, otherwise, how could we have come together for a chat?

Looking back, sending a young man with a talent for music like you to establish the LPS was indeed a sagacious decision.”

Arthur responded with a smile, “Sir, you must remember, I assured you, I would bring my musical talent there.

In my view, commanding the Police Intelligence Department is no different from composing eight musical notes, always attentive to the harmony of the tune.

It’s essential not to introduce any unnecessary noise.”

Sir Peel nodded slightly, “I agree with that view, and your new record does have that issue.

Some of the noise in it is rather grating.

As a refined piece of music to be presented to the British public, the notes are not harmonious enough.”

Arthur inquired, “So, what would your advice be?”

Sir Peel said, “Arthur, I admire your musical capabilities, but this composition still falls short compared to the ‘clock,’ and it uses some overly sophisticated techniques that might be difficult for the British public to understand.

However, that’s not your fault, it’s always like that with new things; they require time to gain public acceptance.

But for now, I believe it’s not ready to be made public.”

Arthur, upon hearing this, voiced his agreement, “Your Excellency, that is precisely why I sought you out.

I also think this piece is not quite mature yet, but as you know, I cannot complete the revision of the score by myself.

It’s not just that I don’t have the time, you should be aware that the officers from Scotland Yard have been lingering around the Thames River lately, and they all complain about how the river water has stained and fouled our uniforms.”

“By the way, speaking of which, I need to trouble you with another matter, do you have any recommendations for an affordable perfume?

Rowan, the Director, mentioned that he plans to purchase some as a welfare benefit to distribute to everyone.”

Sir Peel, upon hearing this, took a sip from his coffee cup, “Arthur, even if you didn’t mention it, I was planning to send some perfume to Scotland Yard to console the officers.

I am aware of the arduous and difficult work you’ve been doing recently.

It’s understandable for the officers to be feeling disgruntled, especially since swimming in the Thames River really shouldn’t be part of your job duties.”

Arthur, reassured by Peel’s promise, then asked, “Are you speaking for yourself just now, or is that the consensus among the old school gentlemen of London?”

Peel responded, “It’s my personal opinion, but I think even the Earl of Eldon, who is the most old-fashioned and quintessential gentleman in London, probably wouldn’t be able to accept your new piece.

So rest assured, I’ll take care of the perfume matter.

High-quality perfumes are expensive because of their quality and because their fragrance is well-received by the public, not because of the brand or label on them.

Arthur, you must understand this.”

Arthur, upon hearing this, took a sip of his coffee, savored it for a moment, and then spoke, “So, the perfume tags in the House of Commons…

ah, no, will the perfume labels be removed?

The officers at Scotland Yard really don’t need any labels, they use the perfume merely for deodorization, and having a brand on it would only weigh on us psychologically.”

Sir Peel, sensing something amiss, asked, “Have you obtained the formula for the perfume?”

Arthur nodded, “Only partially, but from the ingredient list I have so far, there indeed seems to be something added that shouldn’t be there.”

At this, Sir Peel’s eyes widened slightly and the fingers he rested on the table trembled lightly—though he still maintained the decorum of a true gentleman, it was evident he was probably seething inside.

Sir Peel clapped his hands, calling over his valet, from whom he took his coat and hat to put them on properly.

While adjusting his attire, he addressed Arthur, “Arthur, I must make it clear to you, I was not aware of this.”

“Of course,” Arthur smiled, “Otherwise, I wouldn’t have invited you to preview the new piece.”

Peel nodded slightly, “I will give you an answer about the perfume in a week.

After all, one piece of music is not enough for me to decide whether to terminate the procurement contract with the longtime supplier.

Besides, this matter requires the unanimous consent of the other gentlemen.

I may not like it, but if they do, I cannot simply go against their wishes.

Of course, I would prefer not to hear any discordant noise, but if it must be played, it has to be after all the gentlemen’s attempts have been declared ineffective.”

Upon hearing the words, Arthur stood up, with one hand on his chest, he smiled and bowed, “Then, I shall await your good news.”