In the early 20th century, following a devastating plague that wiped out the British royal lineage, Hermann, a distant heir, unexpectedly ascends to the throne. Known for his progressive ideas, he quickly enacts sweeping reforms, including a controversial bill mandating that all women between the ages of twenty-one and seventy must vote in various elections, with penalties for noncompliance. Initially, the bill is met with indifference and hostility from many women, who had not been enthusiastic about the suffrage movement. The implementation of compulsory voting becomes a burden, disrupting daily life and leading to widespread dissatisfaction. Women find themselves overwhelmed by the frequency of elections, which interfere with work and leisure, prompting the formation of the No-Votes-for-Women League, which gains millions of supporters. As protests escalate, including disturbances at political meetings and public displays of discontent, the government remains steadfast in its decision to uphold the voting law. In a creative act of defiance, women organize the Great Weep, a mass demonstration where thousands weep in public spaces, disrupting daily life and drawing attention to their plight. Faced with the chaos and the government's inability to manage the situation, Hermann decides to reverse the voting law. He instructs his ministers to draft a bill that would revoke women's voting rights, demonstrating his cunning approach to governance. Hermann's chuckle at the situation reveals his understanding of political maneuvering, suggesting that sometimes, unconventional methods can yield the desired outcomes. The narrative highlights themes of power, gender politics, and the complexities of societal change.
By Saki · First published 1911 · Genre: Satire, Political Fiction, Comedy