Double Dealer is a captivating play by William Congreve that delves into themes of love, deceit, and betrayal. The intricate plot weaves together the lives of various characters as they navigate the treacherous world of upper-class society in 17th century England.

Congreve's sharp wit and clever dialogue make for a compelling read, as the characters engage in intricate schemes and manipulations to get what they want. The play is filled with twists and turns, keeping the reader on their toes until the very end.

The characters are complex and flawed, making them both relatable and intriguing. From the cunning Lady Touchwood to the charming but deceitful Maskwell, each character adds depth to the story and keeps the reader engaged.

Overall, Double Dealer is a thought-provoking and entertaining play that explores the darker side of human nature. Congreve's skillful writing and engaging plot make it a must-read for fans of classic literature and drama.

Book Description:
"This remarkable melodrama [The Double Dealer] - for a comedy it can scarcely be called... Is it possible to imagine a more inextricable tangle? No human brain can keep the threads clear for two consecutive minutes.... What wonder if audiences were at first baffled and fatigued by the effort to follow the outs and ins of this Labyrinthine plot. Well may Lord Touchwood say: 'I am confounded when I look back, and want a clue to guide me through the various mazes of unheard-of treachery.' " - Summary by William Archer, editor, 1912 Cast list: Maskwell, a villain; pretended friend to Mellefont, gallant to Lady Touchwood, and in love with Cynthia: Son of the Exiles Lord Touchwood, uncle to Mellefont: Larry Wilson Mellefont, promised to, and in love with Cynthia: Adrian Stephens Careless, his friend: Tomas Peter Lord Froth, a solemn coxcomb: Alan Mapstone Brisk, a pert coxcomb: Mike Manolakes Sir Paul Plyant, an uxorious, foolish old knight; brother to Lady Touchwood, and father to Cynthia: ToddHW Lady Touchwood, in love with Mellefont: Matea Bracic Cynthia, daughter to Sir Paul by a former wife, promised to Mellefont: Lydia Lady Froth, a great coquette; pretender to poetry, wit, and learning: Devorah Allen Lady Plyant, insolent to her husband, and easy to any pretender: Sonia Saygrace, a chaplin: Algy Pug Boy: ambsweet13 Footman: Algy Pug Stage Directions: Dave Lantz Editing: ToddHW