The New Crusade

The merry adventures of a theoretical nudist millionaire who tired to turn England naked.

THE NEW CRUSADE concerns Lord Surbiton’s obsession to turn England naked. He buys a newspaper to plug the idea; he parades the Dawk (a most entertaining gentleman) naked through Surrey carrying a banner proclaiming the New Crusade. By skilful work in the Press, by the most elaborate and Far-reaching campaign, the idea begins to spread. Then comes the heat wave, with wild scenes on the Serpentine “Lido” and amongst Surrey “hikers.

Society takes up the idea. Finally the liberal leader decides to revive his falling fortunes by making it a plank in the forthcoming General Election. His party is returned to power and appears naked in the House. Meanwhile…but it would be most unfair to disclose all the glorious things which befall The New Crusade. This story makes a most joyous piece of fun and is, if one goes a little deeper, a delicious skit on the power of the modern Press.