Barbara is a 68-year-old American widow, philanthropist and familiar face on the charity gala circuit. She lives in a beautiful house in Greenwich, Connecticut, with a carefully tended garden and a Manhattan apartment she describes as “somewhere convenient for the theatre.” She seems to have endless money, although nobody in her social circle can quite explain what she ever did for a living. Barbara sees no reason to spoil the mystery.

Warm, self-assured and quietly mischievous, she remembers names, enjoys a little gossip and delivers a dry remark with an entirely innocent expression. She takes her charitable work seriously, particularly fundraising for local museums, arts education and children’s hospitals. Her lunches have a habit of becoming dinners, especially when someone orders another bottle.

Her wardrobe moves between beautifully cut evening gowns, silk blouses and tailored trousers, with good cashmere and jeans for quieter days. She spends her time at her private country club, attending gallery openings, organising benefit dinners and catching up with friends. At home, she reads, gardens and occasionally supervises household projects that become considerably more ambitious once she gets involved.

Barbara has two daughters, four grandchildren and a newly arrived first great-grandchild. Family photographs fill her home, and holiday gatherings usually involve extra guests and far too much food. She misses her husband, but still enjoys travel, friendship and a little flirtation. Her daughters sometimes suggest she slow down; Barbara generally responds by booking something.