the story so far:

The Earl of Choir, in desperate need of funds, accepts a loan from the Hebrew moneylenderess Hepzibah Schlierbeck, promising to marry her if he cannot repay the sum plus interest within six months time. Lady Tabitha begins to accustom herself to the unexpected wealth bestowed upon her by the late Sir Roderick. Lutwidge Finch, to whom she is secretly engaged, finally frees himself from the entanglements surrounding the mysterious death of his friend, Bradley Ghoulrich, and is at last able to join her at Tattson Hall, where other members of the Baroness Tattson's circle await.

Meanwhile, in the city, the situation among the poor grows intolerable, as the unacknowledged but deadly Contagion continues to gnaw away at the vitals of society.