"The Bachelors: A Novel" by William Dana Orcutt is a work of fiction written in the early 20th century. The book explores the lives of two bachelors, Montgomery Huntington and Connie Cosden, who share a close friendship although they come from different backgrounds and viewpoints. Central to the narrative is their discussion about marriage and relationships, revealing underlying themes of companionship, ambition, and the complexities of love in a changing social landscape. At the start of the story, the two friends are introduced during a conversation at their golf club, where they are humorously scrutinized by their peers for the apparent inconsistencies in their friendship. The banter highlights Cosden's dynamic and driven personality against Huntington's more contemplative and philosophical demeanor. The discussion pivots when Cosden reveals his desire to marry, prompting a reflection on the nature of their bachelorhood. As Huntington grapples with the implications of Cosden's intentions and their own unexpressed emotions, the opening sets the stage for an exploration of deeper relationships, societal expectations, and the bittersweet nature of romance. (This is an automatically generated summary.)