Chapter 1

The Galt Mansion, the home of Benjamin Galt, was set among majestic oaks from which mosses hung like tears. It was surrounded by over an acre of verdant grasses and flower beds. Most people considered it the grandest home in New Orleans. It was three stories high, had 41 windows, was built of granite, and it had three pointed turrets that made it seem a castle. A gravel driveway snaked from the Rue Orpheus to the front entrance. Granite steps flanked by peaceful granite lions descended from a grand, roofed porch splayed with chairs and rockers. It was magnificent yet tasteful in every way but one – all of the 53 well-tended flower beds were planted exclusively with lily’s. Few would guess that its owner was a cheat, a liar, a thief, an embezzler and a murderer.