It Never Can Happen Again

In the London of the early 1900s, two worlds meet in the pages of William De Morgan's generous, sprawling novel. In one, the successful author Alfred Challis is drawn into the glittering circle of the Arkroyd family of Grosvenor Square and Royd Hall, and above all to Judith Arkroyd, who dreams of the stage. At home his wife Marianne grows jealous, and each keeps back something of the past. In the other world, little Lizarann Coupland leads her blind father Jim through the streets of a poor quarter where he sells matches, and wins the friendship of a large-hearted country rector.

First published in 1909, It Never Can Happen Again is a comedy of manners and a domestic drama in the long Victorian tradition, full of eccentric characters, humorous asides and direct talk with the reader, with a plot that turns on the old controversy over marriage to a deceased wife's sister. Readers who enjoy Dickens, Thackeray and the leisurely Edwardian novel will find much to enjoy.

This edition contains the complete text, including the author's closing note to his readers, together with a new introduction, a character guide, a summary, a discussion of themes, a glossary, and questions for discussion.