Gulmore, the Boss

"Gulmore, the Boss" by Frank Harris is a story set in the late 19th century, focusing on Jonathan Byrne Gulmore, a dominant political figure whose world is turned upside down by a heated election. The story also follows the life of Gulmore's young daughter, Ida, and her complex feelings toward Professor Roberts, a rising academic. The novel highlights themes of ambition, societal classes, and the rot within political circles, especially as Gulmore gears up for an election that stands to redefine his influence. The narrative introduces the tense atmosphere of the Gulmore household, marked by conversations about the looming election and Professor Roberts, who is running against Gulmore. Gulmore wants to find something to use against Roberts, while Ida grapples with her conflicting emotions for the professor, initially diminishing him but then exposing her envy as she sees his growing influence.