
A fashionable Chicago mansion opens its doors to Hugh, a charismatic yet perpetually tardy young man, and Grace Vernon, the poised and witty daughter of a well‑connected family. Their banter crackles with sharp humor as they navigate the rituals of a society that values appearances as much as affection. The scene is set by a glowing fireplace and a centuries‑old clock that never misses a beat, underscoring the tension between timeless love and the ticking demands of their world.
When the couple’s impending engagement becomes the talk of an upcoming reception, they find themselves caught between personal desire and the expectations of their families. Hugh’s restless mind spins schemes to avoid a public declaration, while Grace clings to the notion that their love was destined long before they ever met. As the night of the announcement draws near, the pair must decide whether to submit to social convention or forge a path that honors their own hearts, all while the glittering façade of high society threatens to eclipse their true feelings.
Language
en
Duration
~7 hours (430K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2004-11-06
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1866–1928
Best known for lively, humorous popular fiction at the turn of the 20th century, this Indiana-born novelist won a wide readership with romantic adventures such as Graustark and Brewster's Millions. His stories blended comedy, fantasy, and fast-moving plot in a way that made him a favorite of magazine and book audiences alike.
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