'The Virginians', a sequel to William M. Thackeray's 'Henry Esmond', is a fictional history of Henry Esmond's daughter, Madam Esmond of Castlewood estate in Virginia, and her twin sons, George and Henry Warrington. George, born a half hour before his brother Harry could not have been more different from his brother. George loved books and had a more earnest, serious and introspective disposition than the younger Harry, who loved sports, gambling (especially card playing) and had an out-going and fun loving nature. George was also a playwright, if not an altogether successful one.