Peacock's seventh and final novel, published in 1861, brought a mellow tone to the author's satire but found his discursive powers intact. Included are several poems, a wedding for eighteen, comedy, philosophy, and satire. An 1896 review in the New York Times opined: "Sentimental adventures, love making, and festival making comprise the framework only of this singular work, which is full of learning, classical and strange, and rich in poetry."