A Lost Leader

"A Lost Leader" by E. Phillips Oppenheim is a story set in the early 1900's. It looks at a former politician named Lawrence Mannering who is now removed from society seeking a peaceful life away from political schemes as he tries to deal with his past and whether or not he should get back into public life. Loyalty, beliefs, and what somebody wants all come into play. In the book, Mannering and Leslie Borrowdean are talking about life and political duties by the sea where Borrowdean is trying to get Mannering interested in politics again, telling him that they are close to an important chance for change. Mannering says he doesn't like politics and likes his quiet life in the country. Their different points of view are discussed with Mannering seeking peace and Borrowdean strongly believing in political duty. As they talk, it becomes clear that there will be a conflict between doing what makes one happy and serving society, made worse by a puzzling Mrs. Handsell who makes Mannering's quiet life complicated.