The Marryers: A History Gathered from a Brief of the Honorable Socrates Potter

by Irving Bacheller

"The Marryers: A History Gathered from a Brief of The Honorable Socrates Potter" by Irving Bacheller is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book introduces readers to Whitfield Norris, a multi-millionaire entangled in the complications of wealth, friendship, and the burdens of his past. As the narrative unfolds, it delves into themes of love, societal expectations, and the challenges of navigating relationships against the backdrop of American and European societal norms. The opening portion of the novel presents Socrates Potter, a lawyer, recounting his experiences with Whitfield Norris. Upon visiting Norris’s country home, Potter learns about the inner complexities of his client's life, including his struggles with blackmail stemming from a past crime committed by his father. Through conversations and interactions with Norris's family, particularly his charming daughter Gwendolyn, the story hints at the romantic entanglements and societal pressures faced by the characters as they navigate their lives in affluent society. This initial chapter sets up a blend of humor and drama, suggesting that the road ahead will be rife with intrigue and moral dilemmas.