Arnold's Tempter

"Arnold's Tempter" by Benjamin F. Comfort is a historical fiction work that plunges into the heart of the American Revolutionary War era, specifically in Philadelphia, spotlighting characters like Roderick Barclugh and Benedict Arnold. It investigates profound questions about devotion, aspiration, and the struggle between old-fashioned aristocratic beliefs and the rise of democratic principles. Beginning with Roderick Barclugh's arrival in Philadelphia for a pivotal dinner party hosted by Robert FitzMaurice, the story introduces us to the social and political world of the time. The dinner brings him face-to-face with significant individuals, including General Benedict Arnold and his wife, Peggy. The social interactions and conversations paint a picture of a divided society, torn between loyalty to the crown and support for independence, revealing the characters' complex motivations. Barclugh's captivating personality gains the interest of those around him, hinting at hidden objectives and skillfully maneuvering through a maze of political alliances and economic interests, setting the stage for a story of moral choices in a time of upheaval.