
In the glittering world of New York society, George Bellew—young, handsome, and fabulously wealthy— discovers that the woman he loves, Sylvia Marchmont, has accepted a marriage proposal from a titled English duke. The shock of the sudden rejection sends him spiraling through a maze of gossip, speculation, and the bemused judgments of his fashionable friends, who predict everything from reckless escapades to impulsive remarriage. Rather than drown his sorrows in drink or danger, George turns to an unexpected source of counsel: his long‑serving valet, Baxter, a picture of impeccable poise and quiet wisdom.
Together they weigh the classic options of a scorned lover—revenge, adventure, new romance, or a return to duty—while the narrative swirls with witty banter, elegant settings, and a keen eye for the absurdities of high‑society expectations. The story promises a charming blend of humor and heart as George navigates his bruised pride and decides what kind of man he truly wishes to become.
Language
en
Duration
~5 hours (336K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2003-12-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
Subjects

1878–1952
Best known for swashbuckling historical romances like The Broad Highway, he helped shape early 20th-century adventure fiction with stories full of wit, danger, and old-world charm.
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