What Will He Do with It? — Volume 01
1858
A novel written during the mid-19th century. The opening chapters introduce a lively summer fair in a picturesque Surrey village, depicting the social customs and characters of the time. Central to the narrative are two young men, Lionel and Frank Vance, who are captivated by the performances they encounter, particularly the plight of a charming girl named Juliet Araminta Waife and her grandfather, the once-great actor William Waife. At the start of the story, the fair is in full swing, filled with vibrant chaos and characters, including the grand stage featuring melodramatic performances and various oddities that delight the crowd. As Lionel and Vance observe the spectacle, they are drawn to the enchanting young actress, Juliet, who is performing to support her ailing grandfather. Through conversations with local characters like the cobbler and their observations of the fair, the young men learn about Waife's struggles and the interest Juliet's performance generates. The chapters set the stage for themes of artistic aspiration, personal sacrifice, and the complex social dynamics between class and character as the tale unfolds.
