The last quarter of the 19^th century is a busy time for the British. They are manipulating an occupation of Egypt, have purchased the majority of the Suez Canal shares from Khedive (viceroy) Ismail Pasha and are very determined to keep the French, Belgians and Italians away from the Nile.
Cairo is a very political and social city.

From The 19^th Century lithograph by David Roberts

Deirdre, young wife of the British Consul, feels out of place. She has always felt thus. She is not unaware of the whispers. Such an exotic looking girl. Quite lovely really, with those dark eyes and olive skin. Where do her long walks take her? Only mad dogs and Englishmen venture out in the noonday sun! Her mysterious pedigree only serves to fuel the gossip. Born in Cairo, orphaned as an infant and raised in the home of a distant English cousin, Deirdre has always known she was somehow, different. Below stairs, her old nurse Sullah mutters strange warnings and threatens dire consequences which effectively hushes all chatter. Her marriage silenced the wagging tongues for a time. For, after all, His Lordship is a man of distinction and highest social standing. It has not been guessed that he alone, knows the true circumstances of her birth. Deirdre continues to defy convention as she and her hound, Nefer, make their way to a small ruined temple just at the edge of the city. There she reads to a group of bright eyed eager children. They gather at her feet and gaze in awe at this beautiful lady who delights them with the wonders of far away places. His Lordship has followed her this day. As he stands in the shadows, his eyes are drawn to the ancient temple walls and the still brightly painted scene of a beautiful queen surrounded by her court, faithful Pharaoh Hound at her side. He is stunned by the resemblance to his wife. Impossible! Or is it? Just then, Nefer senses his presence and raises her head, ears erect. Deirdre glances his way. His Lordship suddenly smiles and bows to his lady, his queen.

Deirdre's walking costume is a checked gown under a soft camel princess style over dress. The lace trimmed collar is from a vintage lawn handkerchief. The damask trimmed camel over dress is laced in front with a matching camel cording and draped in back with camel and black cord and tassels. A black silk bow nestles in the back folds. Black silk bows accent the bodice and sleeves. She carries an open parasol with turned wooden handle and tasseled cord loop, red "leather" book and small reticule. Her dark mahogany hair is dressed in curls and topped by a "straw" hat trimmed with black silk ribbon and organza bows, feathers and a sheer black veil (to lower against those winged desert pests). She wears "pearl" drop earrings, black silk ribbon choker with "gold" charm, a double strand bracelet of the tiniest gold beads from a vintage beaded purse and a "pearl" ring. Lace trimmed ivory pantalets and petticoat, ivory stockings and black boots complete the costume. Nefer is wearing a leather collar and silk ribbon leash.
Deirdre's eyes have been painted a lovely golden brown with soft sable shadows. Her lips are a soft rosy beige. Paint has been sealed. She has a natural manicure with white tips, new viscose wig and silk lashes.

The Pharaoh Hound is a dog breed of uncertain origin, but related to the Greyhound . The name derives from the dog's resemblance to the lean hounds seen in ancient Egyptian sculpture and painting.

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