The Memoirs of Jacques Casanova de Seingalt, 1725-1798. Volume 22: to London

In this lively episode of the famed adventurer’s memoirs, our narrator finds himself in the bustling city of Lyons, caught between the glitter of the theatre and the subtle politics of Venetian diplomacy. After a tender farewell to his beloved Marcoline, he encounters a troupe of ambassadors returning from London, whose polished charm and curious inquiries pull him into a web of social intrigue. The sparkling dialogue, witty repartee, and delicate courtship rituals reveal a world where reputation, romance, and ambition intersect on the grand stage of 18th‑century Europe.

As the evening unfolds, the narrator must balance his own desires with the expectations of his distinguished guests, all while plotting a swift passage toward Paris and ultimately London. The narrative captures the tension between public display and private longing, offering listeners a vivid portrait of aristocratic life, clever maneuvering, and the bittersweet moments that precede a new chapter of adventure.