First published in 1873, this satirical novel offers a biting and humorous critique of Victorian society and culture, exploring themes of imperialism, social reform, and religious hypocrisy. Drawing on a wide range of literary and philosophical sources, Oliphant offers a witty and insightful commentary on the contradictions and paradoxes of modern life, as well as the complex and often ambiguous nature of human morality.

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.

This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.

Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.