The narrative follows Mr. Montague Twiggs, a dental surgeon in Adelaide, who grapples with the monotony and financial struggles of his profession. His day begins with a mix of professional duties and personal frustrations, highlighted by a series of letters that reflect his dissatisfaction with patients who fail to pay their bills. A peculiar encounter with a foreign man seeking a tooth extraction under the influence of mind over matter leads Twiggs to ponder the burdens of his profession and the allure of a more carefree life. Twiggs receives a mysterious phial from the stranger, which promises to liberate his spirit for a period of forty-two days. After accidentally breaking the phial, he inhales its contents and finds himself in a spirit form, free from his physical body. This newfound freedom allows him to explore life from a different perspective, leading him to possess the bodies of various individuals, including the archdeacon of a local cathedral, Augustine Bottleworthy. As Bottleworthy, Twiggs experiences a life of social prominence and influence, contrasting sharply with his previous existence. He navigates the complexities of social interactions, particularly with the wealthy and influential, while also confronting his own prejudices and assumptions about class and morality. The narrative explores themes of identity, social class, and the nature of happiness, as Twiggs learns to appreciate the value of human connection and the importance of kindness. The story culminates in a series of events at a garden party hosted by Lady Fitz-Tootle, where various characters from different social strata converge. The interactions reveal the superficiality of social hierarchies and the shared humanity that transcends class distinctions. Ultimately, Twiggs, through his experiences as Bottleworthy, gains a deeper understanding of himself and the world around him, leading to a transformation in his outlook on life. The work deftly critiques societal norms and the often arbitrary nature of social status, while also celebrating the potential for personal growth and redemption through empathy and understanding.
By Arthur Gask · First published 1936 · Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Drama · 16 chapters