It is just before the first world war, and at 23 Archibaldo Olson Barnabooth is the wealthiest man in the world. Scion of a South American branch of European aristocracy, Barnabooth sets off on a solo Grand Tour through the capitals of Europe, hoping to unravel the mystery that is himself. Toward that ever elusive goal he records this diary (properly intended for publication), capturing brash and introspective opinions of everything: eros pursued, lost and won; the embarrassment of riches; the pleasures of travel; the glories and shortcomings of Europe�s grand hotels and railroads and theaters. Into the realm of the fabulous Barnabooth�s adventures intrude with wit and style and a sad innocence: there is something utterly endearing and equally ridiculous about this passionate A.O. Barnabooth, quintessential idealist of a then newly born 20th century�the creation of one of France�s great literary geniuses now recovered in this era.