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The Compleat Bachelor

by Oliver Onions (1873–1961)

  • Free to read
  • 2 hours to read
  • 15 chapters
  • Reading level: 7th grade

"The Compleat Bachelor" by Oliver Onions is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Rollo Butterfield, a reflective bachelor navigating the social intricacies and romantic entanglements of his life in London, particularly his interactions with women and the challenges posed by societal expectations of marriage and companionship. The opening of the book introduces Rollo in a lively tea gathering hosted by a family member, Caroline, where the conversation flits between playful banter and subtle revelations about relationships. Rollo’s wit and keen observations set the tone, as he engages with the women around him while reflecting on his status as a confirmed bachelor. Through humorous dialogue and Rollo's internal monologue, we see his relationships with friends and family, hinting at deeper themes regarding the complexities of love, friendship, and the idea of remaining single in a society that values marriage. This lively beginning establishes Rollo as an endearing and thoughtful character, positioning readers to explore his journey further.

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  • England · Social life and customs · 19th century
  • Humorous stories
  • Siblings
  • Bachelors

Read the opening

Chapter I

“Perhaps, Rollo,” said my sister (Caroline Butterfield, spinster), “you would like to go on to your club, and call for me in an hour or so. There will only be women, I expect.”

“Carrie,” I replied, “your consideration does you credit; but no company that you may enter is too bad for me. I insist on accompanying you. It is my first duty as a brother.”

Carrie laughed.

“I believe you like it, Rol,” she said. “Molly Chatterton says Loring says you never go to a club if you can have tea with a married woman.”

“It is the one reward of a blameless reputation,” I replied; “but that Loring Chatterton should say so is rank ingratitude, considering his own ante-nuptial record. Rank ingratitude.”

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Contents

  1. Chapter I
  2. Chapter II
  3. Chapter III: A Military ManŒUvre
  4. Chapter IV
  5. Chapter V
  6. Chapter VI
  7. Chapter VII
  8. Chapter VIII
  9. Chapter IX
  10. Chapter X
  11. Chapter XI
  12. Chapter XII
  13. Chapter XIII
  14. Chapter XIV: The Things That Are CÆSar’s
  15. Chapter XV

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About this edition

This free edition of The Compleat Bachelor by Oliver Onions comes from Project Gutenberg eBook #45539, released 2014-04-30. 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: Humour, Novels, British Literature.

Summary provided by Project Gutenberg (automatically generated).

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