T H E   R E V O L T   O F   M A N

‘The breaking of fetters, the sudden rush of light.’
R.M. Page 143.

PREFACE

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

Every one who has written stories knows the unaccountable differencethere is between the ease and delight of writing some and thedifficulties and troubles which attend the writing of others. TheRevolt of Man was written during a certain summer holiday; day by daychapter by chapter, was read out, as it was finished, to two ladies. Itis needless to say that their comments on the progress of events wereoften most valuable. Above all I may now acknowledge their advice as tothe conclusion of the story. At first it ended in a real battle. ‘Letthe Revolt of Man be bloodless,’ said my advisers. It is bloodless.The advice was excellent, and I followed it; and now, after fourteenyears, I take this opportunity of thanking them.

W. B.

United University Club;
December 1896.

CONTENTS