
In the bustling world of Southampton’s racing season, society’s finest parade their colors, from swaggering fox‑hunters to polished peers. At the centre of this glittering circle is Delia, a striking young woman whose alabaster neck, coral lips and bright auburn hair turn every head. Though courted by the loquacious Mr. Prattle, the boastful Squire Savage, and even the oddly charming Lord Martin, she remains aloof, entertaining their attentions only with polite amusement.
Yet beneath her polished exterior lies a heart attuned to compassion and literature. Delia’s evenings are spent with tender novels—The Princess of Cleves, Werther—her eyes softening with each sigh, while her witty maid Bridget reminds her that true love may yet find its moment. The stage is set for a tale where elegance, humor, and the promise of genuine affection begin to intertwine.
Language
en
Duration
~2 hours (162K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Jonathan Ingram, Sheila Vogtmann and PG Distributed Proofreaders
Release date
2003-11-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1756–1836
A bold English thinker and novelist, he became one of the earliest major voices for political reform and philosophical anarchism. He is also remembered for his close connection to two literary trailblazers: Mary Wollstonecraft, whom he married, and their daughter Mary Shelley.
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