'Town Before You' Summary

The play opens with Lord Fancourt and his friend, Conway, discussing their financial troubles. Fancourt is in love with Lady Charlotte, but she is engaged to the wealthy Sir Simon Asgill. Conway suggests that Fancourt disguise himself as a wealthy suitor in order to win Lady Charlotte's affections. Fancourt agrees, and he takes on the alias of "Tippy". Tippy quickly becomes the talk of the town, and he soon attracts the attention of Lady Charlotte. However, Sir Simon is not about to give up his fiancée without a fight. He challenges Tippy to a duel, but Tippy manages to escape. Meanwhile, Conway has fallen in love with Lady Horatia Horton, but she is being pursued by the lecherous Sir Robert Floyer. Conway disguises himself as a servant in order to be near Lady Horatia, and he eventually wins her heart. In the end, Tippy and Lady Charlotte are married, and Conway and Lady Horatia are reunited. Sir Simon and Sir Robert are left to lick their wounds, and the play ends with a celebration of love and marriage.