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“The country is so dreary. I want to go to proper shops and the theatre and meet other people my age. When do we leave for the next season?”

– The 12-year-old Countess of Norfolk complaining to her father, September 1813

The Ton

The Ton is the social elite of London – fashionable, popular and wealthy. They are the most influential families who have owned large estates for generations and generally possess a title. Rank is extremely important in the Ton, although it is also true that a wealthy viscountess from a well-liked family could have more social prestige than a reclusive marquess. Families with titles that have been bestowed more recently are looked down upon by more established members of the Ton.

The titles in the peerage, in decreasing order of rank are:

  • Duke/Duchess
  • Marquess/Marchioness
  • Earl/Countess
  • Viscount/Viscountess
  • Baron/Baroness.

Members of the Ton spend the social season (January-July) in London whilst Parliament is in session, then return to their country estates outside of that period. Whilst in London, they host and attend a packed schedule of social events, such as the balls which are the subject of this game. During a social season, there are a variety of places members of the Ton might visit, some of which are described below. These provide inspiration for email and Turnsheet locations, but it is by no means an exhaustive list.

Locations

The friendly, chatty Mrs Humphrey creates a cosy atmosphere in her popular tea shop on the Strand. As well as serving a wide variety of teas, ices and sorbets, Mrs Humphrey is well-known for baking beautifully-decorated cakes and pastries. This is the ideal spot to relax after some shopping or to go on a date with a suitor, although it is important to watch your words in such a busy location, as you never know who might be listening in to your conversations.

Morgan Taylor’s clothesmaking company is a must-stop shop for the fashionable person around town. Xe crafts each piece precisely tailored to the measurements of the customer, using the finest fabrics and newest patterns. To maintain good social standing, it is essential to refresh your wardrobe regularly, and Morgan is all too happy to help turn your money into impressive new garments.

A prestigious club, open only to the most wealthy and well-connected members of society, with the approval of existing members. Black's provides a space for drinking, gambling and networking with other important individuals. An invitation to join is highly coveted and is an important symbol that you have been accepted as a well-respected member of the Ton.

By day, the lush, green grasses and tree-lined promenades of Vauxhall provide the ideal background for a leisurely walk with family, friends or a potential suitor (chaperoned of course). Going for a promenade is also about being seen, perhaps with influential company, an expensive new outfit or to show that your feathers are unruffled by a recent scandal. By night, the area is a popular entertainment destination, as described more here.

Name Pronouns Age Description
Julia Humphreyshe/her55Known to all simply as 'Mrs Humphrey', she runs a popular tea shop on the Strand. Mrs Humphrey is a friendly, comforting figure to many in the Ton, finding great joy in building relationships with her customers.
Morgan TaylorXe/them40Xe owns a successful tailoring business that has been in their family for generations. They must surely have overheard all sorts of secrets about the Ton, but they keep their cards close to xer chest.
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