[NOTE: There is a short list of bookmarks, or pointers, at the end of the
file for those who may wish to sample the author's ideas before making an
entire meal of them. D.W.]





THE POMP OF THE LAVILETTES

By Gilbert Parker

Volume 1.



INTRODUCTION

I believe that 'The Pomp of the Lavilettes' has elements which justify
consideration. Its original appearance was, however, not made under
wholly favourable conditions. It is the only book of mine which I ever
sold outright. This was in 1896. Mr. Lamson, of Messrs. Lamson &
Wolffe, energetic and enterprising young publishers of Boston, came to
see me at Atlantic City (I was on a visit to the United States at the
time), and made a gallant offer for the English, American and colonial
book and serial rights. I felt that some day I could get the book back
under my control if I so desired, while the chances of the book making an
immediate phenomenal sale were not great. There is something in the
nature of a story which determines its popularity. I knew that 'The
Seats of the Mighty' and 'The Right of Way' would have a great sale, and