Simon Dale

A prophecy about royal love, secrets and wine hangs over Simon Dale before he is born. His father has lost much of the family's wealth amid political upheaval, and Simon reaches eighteen needing to earn money. The village vicar enjoys imagining the promised encounters with the King, while Simon's mother worries about their cost. Simon himself admits that the prediction distracts him from finding his own path.

Anthony Hope's historical novel gives Simon a first-person voice that combines reflection, mischief and youthful ambition. Set during the reign of Charles II, it moves from village conversations to encounters with powerful men. In one scene, Simon teases M. de Perrencourt about the French king's height, only to face an order confining him to his room after he passes a guard against instructions. The exchanges make manners and quick replies central to the action, offering readers a view of court life through a young man's risky wit.