In 1779 Mary "Perdita" Darby aka Robinson (age 21) gained popularity when she played the role of Perdita in Florizel and Perdita, an adaptation of Shakespeare's Winter's Tale. It was during this performance that she attracted the notice of the young Prince of Wales, the future King George IV of Great Britain and Ireland (age 16). At this time Amy "Emma Hart Lady Hamilton" Lyon (age 13) sometimes worked as her maid and dresser at the theatre.

1781. Thomas Gainsborough (age 53). Portrait of Mary "Perdita" Darby aka Robinson (age 23).

In or before 1783 Banastre Tarleton 1st Baronet (age 28) and Mary "Perdita" Darby aka Robinson (age 25) had a relationship. She the former mistress of King George IV of Great Britain and Ireland (age 20).

Before 1800 John Hoppner (age 41) (attributed). Portrait of Mary "Perdita" Darby aka Robinson (age 42) as Perdita.