This novel in print differs in some particulars from the same work in
manuscript. To my astonishment, my publishers informed me that certain
words, phrases, sentences, and even passages, are at present illegal in
the United States. I have recorded nothing which I have not observed
in human life, said nothing I do not believe to be true; and I had not
the slightest intention of appealing to anyone’s salacious instincts.
My theme was too seriously tragic for that. But I am bound to accept
the advice of those who know the Law concerning the published word. I
have therefore asked my publishers to delete everything they consider
objectionable, and to substitute asterisks for every word deleted. I
would rather have my book mutilated than say what I do not believe.
En attendant mieux,
R. A.
P.S. I feel bound to add, in justice, that the expurgations required
in the United States are much fewer and shorter than those demanded in
England.
_CONTENTS_
PROLOGUE:
_MORTE D’UN EROE_
_ALLEGRETTO_
3
PART ONE
_VIVACE_
33
PART TWO
_ANDANTE CANTABILE_
109
PART THREE
_ADAGIO_
239