The Turquoise Cup, and, the Desert

"The Turquoise Cup, and, the Desert" by Arthur Cosslett Smith is a story unfolding in Venice, where an English nobleman, Lord Vauxhall, is determined to obtain a priceless turquoise cup. His goal is to impress Lady Nora Daly and win her love. He seeks assistance from the Cardinal Archbishop, a man who initially meditates thoughtfully on the meaning of existence while observing pigeons, but soon engages with the Earl’s unusual request. Lord Vauxhall's pursuit is driven by a blend of genuine affection and foolish ambition. The novel uses humor and heartfelt moments to examine the themes of love, ambition, and the moral challenges one faces when trying to fulfill a desire. The book blends comedic moments with sentimental intrigue, as it follows the aristocratic characters and their intersection of love and moral decision-making.