The Shadow of Great Britain

485: Chapter 261: Take Off Your Hats and Pay Tribute, Gentlemen!

(4K4)_2 485: Chapter 261: Take Off Your Hats and Pay Tribute, Gentlemen!

(4K4)_2 The gentle and elegant melody that fell into the ears of the audience was like a pair of soft arms brushing across their cheeks.

The crowd, just moments ago pumped with adrenaline from the duel, suddenly fell into a deep nostalgia for rural summer nights, while the Hastings supporters who had come for tonight’s piano premiere were showing even more shock.

Arthur, known for his piece “The Bell,” was famous for his wild performance style at various concerts in London, yet today he had composed a piece that was the complete antithesis of his personal style.

Even the president of the Philharmonic Society, Mozesales, sitting in the front row and worried about Arthur’s safety, was somewhat lost in listening.

He closed his eyes to savor the flavor of the notes, and his furrowed brow gradually smoothed out: “Pure, tranquil, clear, yet also delicate.

Forget troubles, forget sorrows, forget that you’re still lying on the small bed in your apartment.

Is he speaking?

If Mozart is a calm pond, then this is a lake bathed in evening moonlight.

Is this really a work of Arthur Hastings?

Is he such a delicate person?

Perhaps, I know too little about him.”

Mendelssohn, who already knew the truth, leaned against the doorway, watching the arms that leapt in the dark across the piano keys.

Even someone as exceptional as he couldn’t help but let out a wistful, envious smile: “It is both unfortunate and fortunate indeed!

Another such remarkable figure has emerged in London.

If this continues, I must seriously consider whether to go to Paris for an exchange.

Perhaps I should settle here in the future?

Between Liszt and Chopin, who can better interpret the path of Romanticism?”

The Great Dumas and others, hurrying down the stairs, also involuntarily slowed their pace when they heard the music.

By the time they came to their senses, they found a pipe burning in a corner not far ahead.

Great Dumas, surprised to see Arthur looking unharmed, exclaimed, “Arthur, you…

”

Arthur leisurely exhaled a puff of smoke, lightly wagging his finger at his two friends, and with a low voice, chuckling said, “He truly is a genius, isn’t he?”

“You’re not hurt?”

At this, Arthur just smiled and ran a hand through his hair, saying, “The title of a genius pianist is about to change hands.

If that’s what you’re asking, then yes, I am a bit hurt.”

Disraeli looked around and asked, “And Mr.

Bertrand?”

Arthur took a drag of his cigarette: “Mr.

Bertrand should have already taken the money and gone back to his apartment.

He did have a hard time today.

But overall, the money was well spent.”

“So, you bought him off?” Disraeli slapped his forehead, “Damn!

I should have thought of that.

But…

Bertrand’s price wouldn’t have been cheap, right?

You’re doing all this just for the sake of this Polish man’s warm-up act?

What are you really after?”

Arthur did not elaborate but turned to subtly remind Disraeli, “Benjamin, you’re about to run for Representative.

What kind of issue are you planning to bring out to cheer your voters?”

Disraeli, upon hearing this, immediately caught on.

He knew Arthur was referring to the issue of aid for Poland.

On this matter, he could both disgrace the Whig Party and stand on the moral high ground.

The emergence of an outstanding Polish pianist was undoubtedly the best way for the public to learn about Poland.

Disraeli’s heart leapt for joy, but then he began to worry about Arthur’s predicament.

He also made a subtle mention, “I saw Viscount Palmerston here today, do you think he will appreciate the piano?”

Arthur just laughed softly, patting Disraeli on the shoulder, “It doesn’t matter if Viscount Palmerston doesn’t understand music, as long as Viscount Melbourne and Lady Norton enjoy it.

I sent Lady Norton two box tickets the other day; I trust she will choose to bring a gentleman that makes her happy.”

Great Dumas also understood their coded language, and the Frenchman frowned and said, “Arthur, isn’t this quite a risk you’re taking?

Will Viscount Melbourne support you unconditionally just for hearing a few pleasant tunes?

Although I admit that Chopin’s pieces are indeed no ordinary tunes, I don’t believe his music has the magical power to mesmerize a greed-driven politician.”

Arthur shook his head gently, “Alexander, you’re right, of course I’m not sure.”

“Then why do you still do this?”

Arthur wrapped more bandages around his hand: “Isn’t His Majesty the King there?”

Disraeli frowned, “The King would get involved in Scotland Yard’s personnel matters?

Besides, could you have known beforehand that he would come today?”

Arthur shook his head with a smile, “Of course not, I was just joking.

I can’t rely on Viscount Palmerston’s magnanimity, nor can I believe in Viscount Melbourne’s love for music and Lady Norton’s passion.

I can only trust in the pettiness and irascibility of Mr.

Norton, the Westminster magistrate.

”

Upon hearing the name Norton, Great Dumas also remembered some of the rumors, “He was here today?”

Arthur nodded slightly, “I sent a letter to the respected former Representative Bernie Harrison a few days ago, with two tickets for tonight’s performance and a cordial invitation for him to bring his good friend Mr.

Norton, so they could see for themselves if there was anything untoward between his wife and Viscount Melbourne.

You all know, Mr.

Harrison has always had a good relationship with Scotland Yard, and I believe he will kindly accept my suggestion.

It would be even better if he can confidently persuade Mr.

Norton to stop enduring his unhappy marriage for that elusive office, and even prompt Mr.

Norton to file for divorce.”