The Revolution at its apogee, the fatal term of the contest waged by new ideas against the old social order, by liberty against despotism, by law against tyranny; and from this conflict, from this atmosphere of blood, progress and humanity triumphantly disengaging themselves; —such is the essence of the book. The drama, intermingled with graceful episodes and charming situations, is acted upon that ancient Vendéan soil, whose wild, picturesque landscapes are reproduced by the master's pen. This romance obtained a success equal to that of Les Misérables.