Born to a proper Bostonian father and an elegant English mother,
Peter Plum spent the first few years of his life in Cairo, Egypt. His 
father, Edgar Plum,  was a self-made businessman who imported
precious herbs, teas and spices. Sadly, the elder Plum was lost a
sea while traveling on business. Peter’s mother, Celeste, then
returned to England, only to discover that her husband’s finances 
were in ruin and the family was bankrupt.  Mrs. Plum was forced to
enter the workforce, but did so with relish. She eventually took
three jobs as she struggled to support her children. Peter excelled at
school and won a scholarship to Oxford.  Peter graduated with
high honor and following a university appointment as Professor of
Ancient Mid-Eastern Culture, Plum settled into academic life. 
Although quite popular with students, Plum longed for adventure
of another kind. During a summer hiatus, he traveled to Egypt and
began several archeological expeditions. Later, after leaving
university life behind, Plum secured a position with the British
Museum and following publication of his controversial paper on
the dynasties of ancient Egypt, rumor has it that Plum was accused
of plagiarism and was summarily dismissed. The Museum has 
remained silent about the exact circumstances surrounding the
Professor's dismissal.