
Cynthia's Chauffeur
by Louis Tracy (1863–1928)
- Free to read
- 6 hours to read
- 17 chapters
- Reading level: 7th grade
"Cynthia's Chauffeur" by Louis Tracy is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds on Derby Day in London and introduces a delightful American girl named Cynthia Vanrenen and her English chaperon, Mrs. Devar. When their chauffeur is unable to take them on their planned journey due to a car accident, young Lord Medenham decides to step in, disguising himself as their driver. This unexpected twist sets the stage for a unique love story entwined with themes of class distinction and adventure. At the start of the novel, the scene is bustling with the excitement of Derby Day, creating a lively backdrop. Cynthia and Mrs. Devar are poised to embark on a picturesque road trip, but when their chauffeur encounters misfortune, they are introduced to Lord Medenham, who takes over the driving duties. The initial interactions between Cynthia and Medenham hint at an undeniable chemistry as they embark on their journey through the English countryside, all while evading social conventions and class expectations. The opening chapters establish a blend of romance, humor, and the potential for adventure, enticing readers to follow as the story progresses.
- Love stories
- Americans · England
- Chauffeurs
Read the opening
Chapter I
THE HIRED CAR
Derby Day fell that year on the first Wednesday in June. By a whim of the British climate, the weather was fine; in fact, no rain had fallen on southern England since the previous Sunday. Wise after the event, the newspapers published cheerful "forecasts," and certain daring "experts" discussed the probabilities of a heat wave. So London, on that bright Wednesday morning, was agog with excitement over its annual holiday; and at such a time London is the gayest and liveliest city in the world.
And then, wholly independent of the weather, there was the Great Question.
From the hour when the first 'bus rumbled Citywards until some few seconds before three o'clock in the afternoon the mass of the people seemed to find delight in asking and answering it. The Question was ever the same; but the answer varied. In its way, the Question formed a tribute to the advance of democracy. It caused strangers to exchange opinions and pleasantries in crowded trains and omnibuses. It placed peers and commoners on an equality. During some part of the day it completely eclipsed all other topics of conversation.
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About this edition
This free edition of Cynthia's Chauffeur by Louis Tracy comes from Project Gutenberg eBook #31472, released 2010-03-02. It is in the public domain in the United States, so you can read it here in full at no cost, on any phone, tablet or computer. Genre: Romance, Humour, Adventure, Novels, British Literature.
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