Neal's canon expertise as a fencer inspired me to introduce a Thee Musketeers theme in Caffrey Conversation. Ten years ago, I set the stage in The Woman in Blue by having Neal join a university fencing club. The club's leader, Aidan Phillips, was so impressed with Neal's ability that he gave him the nickname of d'Artagnan. When Fowler framed Neal for a theft in the following story, The Queen's Jewels, Neal's university friends leaped to his defense. Peter was one frustrated boss during that con. Even though Neal assured him he was one of the team, none of the details could be shared since they were illegal.
