The Ball and the Cross, tells the humorous adventures of two men with opposing worldviews who attempt to duel to defend their beliefs, but are continually thwarted by an apathetic modern society. The story begins with a philosophical discussion in a hot air balloon between Professor Lucifer, a radical rationalist, and a monk named Michael. After Michael leaves, the plot focuses on two main characters: Evan MacIan, a devout and romantic Roman Catholic from the Scottish Highlands, and James Turnbull, a staunch socialist and atheist from the Scottish Lowlands. The conflict begins when Turnbull publishes an image of the Virgin Mary that MacIan deems blasphemous. Feeling his beliefs insulted, MacIan challenges Turnbull to a duel, which in Edwardian society was considered illegal and archaic. The pair, despite their opposing views, are equally passionate and willing to die for their beliefs. On the run, they experience a series of bizarre adventures and encounter a diverse cast of unique characters. The ending is a chaotic one when the asylum burns down and Professor Lucifer reappears. MacIan and Turnbull eventually escape, having realized the paradox of faith and reason, and the supreme value of sincere belief, even if the modern world considers it mad.