In this exciting allegorical novel, Chesterton relates the adventures of two men who want to fight a duel over God and the Virgin Mary. The world thinks them both mad, of course, because they seem to be serious. Chesterton's aim is to highlight the conflict between rationalism and religion - between the Ball and the Cross - and to rouse the complacent and indifferent to conviction, either way. Readers will learn the joy that can result from genuine opposition.