
A lively dinner party brings together some of the era’s sharpest minds—philosophers, playwrights, and a wry doctor—who spar over whether acting belongs among the true arts. Their banter crackles with clever insults, literary allusions, and a playful rivalry that reveals both ego and earnest curiosity. The conversation, set against the glow of candlelight and the clink of fine china, establishes a world where wit is as prized as intellect.
Into this spirited circle steps Jessamy, a young woman whose impending marriage has already become the talk of the town. As friends and foes alike weigh her choice, the narrative weaves together romance, social expectation, and the lingering question of what truly qualifies as art. Listeners will be drawn into a charming portrait of early‑twentieth‑century society, where laughter and longing intertwine, promising both humor and heartfelt intrigue.
Language
en
Duration
~7 hours (449K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by David Widger from page images generously provided by the Internet Archive
Release date
2016-05-02
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1855–1931
An Irish journalist, novelist, dramatist, and poet, he wrote lively popular fiction while also engaging with the political tensions of his time. His work ranges from historical novels to stage writing, giving a vivid glimpse of late Victorian and early 20th-century literary life.
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