Henrietta Temple: A Love Story by Benjamin, Earl of Beaconsfield Disraeli

First published in three volumes in 1837, Henrietta Temple: A Love Story is Benjamin Disraeli's most tender and personal novel, written by the future Prime Minister while he was still a rising young parliamentarian. At its heart is Ferdinand Armine, heir to an ancient Catholic family whose fortunes have crumbled under the weight of ancestral extravagance, and Henrietta Temple, the radiant daughter of General Temple, whom he loves against every claim of duty and dynastic prudence. Torn between a betrothal arranged for the family's survival and a passion that seems to him sacred, Ferdinand must reckon with honor, debt, and the claims of the past. This edition reproduces the COMPLETE, UNABRIDGED original text, preceded by a new introduction and accompanied by reader's notes illuminating its autobiographical roots and Regency world. Part of The Founding Texts Library.