Author’s Note

While Maxwell Dean is a product of my imagination, his directory is inspired by an actual document published in 1742. Titled A Master-Key to the Rich Ladies’ Treasury or The Batchelor’s Directory, it was compiled by “a Younger Brother.” Though the author was single when it was published, he apparently had hopes of changing his status soon afterward, as he dedicated the booklet to a Miss F—n, who was listed on page 22 but who he hoped would shortly remove herself from the directory upon her marriage to him.

In the foreword, addressed “To all Widowers and Batchelors,” he stated the following:

Thus Gentleman, have I in the following sheets I think, opened a fair field for action for you; a fine choice, and a fine Collection of Ladies. Open the campaign directly then yourselves, that my next may be a new set. I have one favour to beg of you, and then I take my leave; that not one of you, of what degree soever, presume to attempt the Lovely Charmer I dedicate to; as to the rest, I heartily wish you all success, and am with great respect,

Your Most Obedient Unknown,

B. M—n