44

The musicians, cousins Gilbert and Joan, seem pleasant enough as they lead you to a high-ceilinged room lit with standing torches. The back wall is lined with weathered armoires, trunks, and racks of outlandish hats, jackets, capes and cameos. Your heart leaps ahead several beats.

"The rehearsal room," Gilbert announces, strumming a wry little fanfare. Joan gives a single honk on the cornett and laughs.

For now, you seem to be the only ones here.