The Oleron family has lived on the Island of Oleron in the Bay of Biscay for centuries. Jean d'Oleron, Seigneur d'Oleron, born 1598, is the current lord in Le Chateau on the island.

A younger brother of Jean, Jacques David d'Oleron, born 1603, began working for a shipping business in La Rochelle in 1618, then formed his own business in 1631 with one ship. Jacques brought several of his siblings into the business, and acquired a second ship in 1637.

Business was mostly good in France, but not always so good around La Rochelle. While the Protestants suffered more overall than the Catholics in those times of religious strife, one of Jacques' ships was severely damaged in an incident in 1651 off Nantes.

With the restoration of the Stuart monarchy in England, Jacques David decided to expand the company, now Oleron Freres et Cie., abroad. The first new office, created in London, was placed under the direction of his second son, Francois Guillaume. A second office soon was created in Bristol. Unfortunately, there were rumors of mismanagement in the London office, and the lack of profits suggested that something was amiss.

Wishing to keep any secrets in the family, he decided so appoint Francois' able daughter, Helene Cherie, to an administrative post in London under her father. Prior to sending her on her way, he cautioned her to be discreet in what she found there to protect the company's reputation. But Grandpere wanted that situation cleared up and corrected, and that office producing more revenue!

Was this to be her big chance to prove herself to Grandpere!? Alas, she had the uneasy feeling that this might have to be to Papa's detriment, if she were to need to become a spy. So her role could prove to be a tricky one.

She arrived in London without incident and began to reorganize the office (with her father's support). Jane Williams, a young widow, was hired for her many skills, especially her stitchery. But, just when the London office seemed to begin operating to Helene's satisfaction, troubles developed in the Bristol office. In addition, the Fleur-de-Lys took some major damage in a storm and was in dry dock there for repairs.

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