Adrian also laughed. “What did I know then? You were always talking about business deals and property, and following in your father’s footsteps, building the family fortunes like he did. I was always a bit puzzled that you knew what you wanted to do with your life at eight years old. And I had no idea about the future, my calling in life.”

“I guess it was drilled into me from a young age—you could say they all urged it upon me. But I do enjoy the wheeling and dealing, as I call it.”

“You certainly know how to make a lot of money. That’s a true skill. Do you ever think you might make some terrible error?”

“Every day, believe it or not. I start my day by asking myself how much I might lose, never how much I’m going to make. That keeps me on my toes. It starts when I’m shaving and only ends when I go to bed at night. But enough about all that. Shall we go to the club tonight, after that event?”

“What event?” Adrian frowned, sounded puzzled. “Are we going somewhere tonight?”

“To the Strattons’, remember? Caroline invited us. She’s having a small gathering, to tell us about a charity she’s starting.”

“Oh God! I’d totally forgotten about it. Frankly, it sounds quite ghastly.”

“It won’t be. She told me she’s serving champagne and canapés, a nice idea, I thought. She just wants us all to back her, by writing a check.”

“She said that?”

“More or less.”

“Bloody hell, she’s got balls.”

Robert laughed. “She always had balls. She’s independent, and very self-confident. And the charity is a good cause.”

“What’s the charity she’s dreamed up?”

“Teaching underprivileged women how to learn a craft, especially battered women. Those who have come out of care homes. I’m going to give her five hundred pounds to help get her started. You should do the same.”

“Bloody hell! And aren’t you being generous with my money!”

“Come on, old chap, you can afford it. You’re the most successful banker in London. No, in England, I’d venture to say. You’re rolling in dosh.”

Adrian nodded. “Of course I’ll give the same as you, and it is a good cause. I was shocked the other day when my sister told me how many women go to the safe home she supports with donations. Clarissa also goes there once a week to talk to them, tries to guide them into a new direction, gives them clothes. Battering defenseless women seems to be a growing hobby for some men. Bastards they are.”

“I know,” Robert replied, letting out a long sigh. “I’ve heard the same stories. I told Caroline I would give her money for her charity on a continuing basis, but you don’t have to, Adrian.”