Grace Livingston Hill
The best man
"The Best Man" by Grace Livingston Hill is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Cyril Gordon, a young man in the secret service, who embarks on a mission of national importance that requires him to assume a false identity. The unfolding narrative juxtaposes his high-stakes assignment with his personal life as he grapples with romance and responsibility, specifically regarding his feelings for Julia Bentley and the unexpected turn his mission takes. At the start of the story, Cyril Gordon is called to an urgent meeting with his chief, who entrusts him with a crucial task involving the retrieval of a stolen cipher message in New York. As he navigates the challenges of his assignment, he struggles with personal reflections about his relationship with Julia, contemplating the implications of marriage. The narrative takes a surprising turn when, due to a series of misunderstandings, he inadvertently finds himself as the best man at a wedding, marrying the delicate and sorrowful bride, Celia. This unexpected event forces him to confront his dual obligations: to fulfill his mission and protect his new bride amid growing dangers.