The story in one page
Sam Marlowe falls instantly for Billie Bennett on the R.M.S. Atlantic, but his path to matrimony is blocked by her demand for a modern-day Sir Galahad. While Sam attempts to meet this impossible standard, he must contend with Bream Mortimer, a rival suitor with the face of a parrot and a talent for balancing glassware. The comedy of errors shifts to a country house where Sam’s cousin Eustace mopes over his own romantic failures. Through a series of blunders involving stage fright, a suit of armor, and a helpful valet named Webster, Sam attempts to secure Billie's hand before her father can intervene.
Who's who
- Sam Marlowe
A fiery young man pursuing his ideal girl via deception.
- Wilhelmina Bennett
An idealistic woman looking for a man like Sir Galahad.
- Eustace Hignett
Sam’s seasick cousin who believes women are the devil.
- Bream Mortimer
Sam's rival, a parrot-faced man who juggles forks at dinner.
- Sir Mallaby Marlowe
Sam’s father, a lawyer who prizes his antique wine glasses.
- Webster
A valet who facilitates the couple's final escape.
What it's really about
- Idealism
- The conflict between romantic expectations and messy human reality.
- Persistence
- Winning a bride through relentless scheming and physical endurance.
Why it's memorable
- Sam shattering a wine glass in shock after learning Billie is already engaged.
- A man with stage fright fleeing a ship's concert without saying a single word.
The ending, explained
Spoilers — show the ending
After Sam proposes while wearing a restrictive helmet, Billie accepts, and they drive to London to find a church for a quick wedding.
For your book club
- Is Billie's desire for a Galahad a genuine virtue or a romantic delusion?
- How does Wodehouse use the physical comedy of the armor to resolve the plot?