Chapter I: Preface

It is now fourteen years since this book appeared anonymously. At first the story stood cold and shivering, disregarded by the world. Six weeks, however, after its production a highly appreciative review in one of the most important journals caused people to inquire after it. Since then it has gone through many editions.

Every one who has written stories knows the unaccountable difference there is between the ease and delight of writing some and the difficulties and troubles which attend the writing of others. The _Revolt of Man_ was written during a certain summer holiday; day by day chapter by chapter, was read out, as it was finished, to two ladies. It is needless to say that their comments on the progress of events were often most valuable. Above all I may now acknowledge their advice as to the conclusion of the story. At first it ended in a real battle. 'Let the _Revolt of Man_ be bloodless,' said my advisers. It _is_ bloodless. The advice was excellent, and I followed it; and now, after fourteen years, I take this opportunity of thanking them.

W. B.

UNITED UNIVERSITY CLUB; _December 1896_.

CONTENTS

CHAP PAGE

I. IN PARK LANE 11

II. THE EARL OF CHESTER 33

III. THE CHANCELLOR 48

IV. THE GREAT DUCHESS 62

V. IN THE SEASON 75

VI. WOMAN'S ENGLAND 92

VII. ON THE TRUMPINGTON ROAD 119

VIII. THE BISHOP 135

IX. THE GREAT CONSPIRACY 150

X. THE FIRST SPARK 160

XI. A MARRIAGE MARRED 179

XII. IN THE CAMP AT CHESTER TOWERS 191

XIII. THE NIGHT BEFORE THE BATTLE 215

XIV. THE ARMY OF AVENGERS 228