From the introduction of The Critical Times: Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Jeremy Bartlett and I am and have been a watchmaker's apprentice for the last three years now. How I came to be in this profession is quite an involved story and too complicated to describe in a few words. Hopefully you will get a better idea of my current situation from the pages available for your leisurely perusal in the publication known as The Critical Times. During the week I work at the store of master watchmaker Mr. Hubbard. He has a store on Fleet Street and has been there for over 30 years now. On weekends I work at Silber and Flemings on Wood Street. This is more to draw customers to Mr. Hubbard. Silber and Flemings allowed Mr. Hubbard to keep a small display case and counter at their store. In return they make use of the connections Mr. Hubbard has in Switzerland. Working in the ballroom as we call it, there are plenty of opportunities to snag potential social connections and relations from London's high-society. It is the well to do you see, who can afford the fine watches we make and fix. Perhaps I should explain how this all began before I disclose the events that occur in the world of time sellers. (London, November 1886)
