
Set against the turbulent backdrop of late‑17th‑century England, the story follows a loyal confidant of the Duke of Shrewsbury as he navigates the swirling rumors that threaten the noble’s reputation. When the duke’s sudden death awakens old accusations of treachery, the narrator feels compelled to record the truth, drawing on his intimate knowledge of court intrigue and the dangerous politics of the time. Early scenes pull the listener into a world of secret correspondences, whispered conspiracies, and the ever‑present tension between Protestant loyalty and Jacobite plots.
Amid the political machinations, a tender yet fraught romance blossoms, linking the narrator to a determined young woman whose courage matches his own. Their covert meetings in garden alcoves and whispered promises give the narrative a human heart, even as they are pursued by relentless constables and suspicious aristocrats. The delicate balance between love and duty keeps the stakes high, inviting listeners to wonder whether truth or affection will prevail.
Richly illustrated and narrated with a clear, measured voice, the tale blends historical detail with personal drama, offering an immersive listen that feels both scholarly and intimately emotional.
Language
en
Duration
~11 hours (673K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Charles Bowen, from page scans provided by Google Books
Release date
2012-03-14
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1855–1928
Best known for turning swashbuckling history into fast, lively fiction, this English novelist earned the nickname “the prince of romance.” His stories of intrigue, danger, and political upheaval helped define the historical adventure novel for a wide popular audience.
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