This "comedy in narrative" recounts the courtship of Sir Willoughby Patterne of Patterne Hall, who is seeking a suitable Lady Patterne. Willoughby's choice is Clara Middleton; but while he wins over her father with his store of fine claret, Clara is a woman of spirit and intelligence, and she is repelled by his egotism.

(Key Words: George Meredith, Humor, The Egoist, Courting).