Set in the time of the French Revolution, this 1921 novel tells of the romantic adventures of Andre-Louis Moreau, a man who has never known the names of his parents. Educated as a lawyer and living with his godfather, Andre-Louis becomes involved with revolutionaries after his best friend is killed in a duel with the aristocratic Marquis de la Tour d"Azyr. He gives stirring speeches to the rebels concerning wealthy men who are not brought to justice, which helps set the stage for the Revolution. Andre-Louis is forced into hiding for his political involvement, and he soon discovers his gifts for acting, playwriting, and fencing in a series of entertaining events. He protects the people he cares for while seeking revenge in this courtly, transformative story. Ultimately, Andre-Louis uncovers the identities of those he has always wished to know.