Christmas at Thompson Hall by Anthony Trollope

Victorian Bookshelf's rating (10 being the best, 0 the worst) ~ 8 stars

     In this screwball comedy, set during the 1870s, Anthony Trollope tells a charming, humorous story about two people on their way to their family's Christmas gathering.
     Mrs. Brown and her husband live in France.  Mrs. Brown's family lives in England, and every year the family gathers at Thompson Hall to celebrate Christmas.  Mrs. Brown, however, has been unable to join her family for eight years because her husband dislikes traveling in the winter which might endanger his delicate health.  This year, though, Mrs. Brown's family insists that she and her husband join them for the festivities.  Jane Thompson, Mrs. Mary Brown's only sister, wants her to come to meet her fiance, who is traveling to Thompson Hall for the Christmas celebration.
     Despite her husband's misgivings about the trip, Mrs. and Mr. Brown leave their home in Pau.  They break their journey overnight at the Grand Hotel in Paris.  Before he goes to bed, Mr. Brown pleads an increasingly painful sore throat.  Mrs. Brown, who will not miss Christmas with her family, believes that he must be feigning his illness.  Nonetheless, near midnight, she agrees to go in search of the hotel's mustard jar.  What is the mustard for?  A mustard plaster, an old-fashioned remedy for throat discomfiture.* 
     Mrs. Brown leavers her quarters, Room 333, in search of the salon.  On the way, she gets lost in the dark hotel.  The night porter rescues her.  Too embarrassed to admit that she had come down to find the mustard jar, she lies that she is searching for her handkerchief, which she supposedly left in the salon.  After the fruitless search, the porter escorts Mrs. Brown back to her room.  She waits until the porter disappears.  Then she hurries back down to the salon, fills her handkerchief with mustard, and begins her journey back to Room 333.
     She returns to her room, opens the door and quietly slips in.  Her husband has fallen asleep; she can hear his peaceful breathing.  In the dark room, she places the hard-won mustard plaster on her husband's throat.  Just as she has finished her deed, she discovers that she has made a ghastly mistake: she has put the mustard plaster on the wrong man!
     This short story is ideal for a winter's evening read and certain to bring a smile to the reader's face (although, I was pretty nervous as I read about Mrs. Brown's misadventure!)  It might not have the moral value of Dickens' superb "A Christmas Carol", but "Christmas at Thompson Hall" is a warm, humorous story that just happens to take place around Christmas time!

     List of Characters ~
Mrs. Mary Brown, the unlucky heroine
Mr. Charles Brown, the afflicted husband
Mr. Jones, the wronged man
The night porter, the witness to Mrs. Brown's night wanderings
Miss Jane Thompson, the engaged sister
Uncle John and Cousin Robert, the relatives

 *(to learn how to make a mustard plaster or what ingredients are used, visit this site and look at number 37 http://www.liferesearchuniversal.com/grannymain.html.)

Pollyanna by Eleanor H. Porter 1913

     You can always find something to be glad about.  At least that is Pollyanna Whittier's philosophy.  And it's a philosophy that impacts an entire town.
     Pollyanna is the daughter of a poor Western pastor.  After her mother died, the Ladies Aid tried to teach her the basics of housekeeping.  Her father, however, teaches Pollyanna her most valuable lesson:  how to be glad in the worse circumstances.  Father and daughter play "the game" - until Rev. Whittier joins his wife in death, and Pollyanna becomes an orphan.
     The Ladies Aid sends Pollyanna to her mother's younger sister, Miss Polly who lives in Beldingsville, Vermont.  Eager and excited, Pollyanna journeys to Beldingsville.  But Miss Polly is not enthusiastic or "glad" about this sudden addition to her household.  Passionate only about her duty, Miss Polly considers all the drawbacks of having a child live with her.
     When Pollyanna arrives, Miss Polly sends Nancy, her maid, to meet the girl at the train station.  Nancy knows the cool welcome awaiting Pollyanna.  She was the one to clean the poorly furnished attic room for the little girl, when there are many lovely rooms quite vacant in other parts of the house.  Pollyanna's bright spirit is not daunted by the large mansion and its strict mistress, even when Miss Polly forbids her from mentioning her father.
     Nancy befriends Pollyanna, and becomes the first to learn "the game."  Others who live in Beldingsville soon learn to appreciate the friendly, sweet child.  Pollyanna's friends include Mrs. Snow, a cranky invalid, Mr. Pendleton, the silent recluse, Jimmy Bean, an orphan looking for a home, and Dr. Chilton, Mr. Pendleton's amiable physician.  She wins the affections of everyone she meets, touching many lives.  Only Miss Polly appears indifferent and uncaring.
     In her mother's old haunts, Pollyanna finds ghosts of love lost, festering grudges, and Nancy says Mr. Pendleton even has a skeleton in his closet!  But the secrets cannot long withstand the optimistic Pollyanna, who knows how to bring the best out of everyone.
     Do you know how to be glad for crutches when you wanted a doll?  Or how you can be glad you have a broken leg?  Pollyanna knows.  But the game is put to the ultimate test one day.  Will it work?
     Come play the game with Pollyanna, a child full of unconditional love and an unstoppable spirit.

A Girl of the Limberlost by Gene Stratton Porter

     Dear friends of mine introduced me to this book by the American naturalist Gene Stratton Porter.  It was published in 1909, and the next year Richard W. Pascoe, Hans Von Holstein, & Richard A. Whiting wrote a song of the same name.  I discovered this delightful piece of sheet music in an older relative's music treasury. 

     Set in Indiana, where the author herself lived, the story circles around the life of Elnora Comstock, who lives on the edge of the Limberlost Swamp.  Her father died when she was a baby, and her mother does not appear to care very much for her.  Elnora spends most of her time in the Limberlost, collecting moths, moss, and other pieces of nature.  Like the author, Elnora is a naturalist and loves the outdoors. 
     The book begins with Elnora going to her first day of highschool in Onabasha, much against her mother's wishes.  Mrs. Comstock uncaringly sends her daughter to school in an ugly hat and out-dated dress.  But receiving an education is most important to Elnora and it outweighs everything else.  Right away, the reader is filled with respect for this brave young girl.  Anyone who has been self-conscious on their first day of school will sympathize with her. 
     Elnora's dreams are almost instantly dashed when she learns that she will have to pay a tuition to attend highschool and buy her own books.  She knows she will receive no help from her mother.  Not only does Mrs. Comstock not approve of highscool, but she is very poor.  Our heroine finds her "fairy godmothers" in her dear neighbors Uncle Wesley and Aunt Maggie.
     A very bright and intelligent girl, Elnora does well in school, and even makes friends with the city girls.  In addition to her regular classes, she studies the violin at school.  Her dead father used to love his violin, but now Mrs. Comstock will not tolerate it.  Elnora has inherited her musical talent from her father, but she does not understand why her mother hatres this instrument.  Elnora loves the violin and cherishes its music from the depths of her soul.
     The mystery surrounding Mr. Comstock's death hangs over Elnora and the first half of the book.  Whatever happened that fateful day has turned Mrs. Comstock's heart bitter and cold, unable to give the love that Elnora craves.
     I loved the first half of this young adult novel.  I liked learning what American highschool was like way back in 1909.  If you enjoy the outdoors, you will like all the references to the birds, plants, and moths native to the Limberlost and Indiana.  I really liked Uncle Wesley and Aunt Maggie, and the character arch of Mrs. Comstock is different and touching.  Elnora herself was different, in that I had never read a book in which the main character is a naturalist. 
     In reading the book, I felt that the novel was actually two stories.  A long time ago I saw a 1990 TV version of Mrs. Porter's book, and it told only the first half of the story.  While the first "story" is about Elnora and her mother's dark heart, the second half focuses on Elnora's love story.  Unfortunately, the love story was disappointing.  I could see the end coming chapters before it came.  I do find comfort in recurring patterns, but I could not fully enjoy this one. 
     Nonetheless, do not let this dissuade you from reading this book.  I enjoyed it, and I would read it again, it's just that the fist half is my favorite.  I have not read anything else by Gene Stratton Porter, but I want to.  She is another one of those delightful lady authors of the early 1900s.  Once well known, her works have been surpassed in the waves of time by such contemporaries as Lucy Maud Montogomery.  If you like the Anne of Green Gables books, learning about everyday life in America during the turn-of-the-century, or nature you are sure to delight in "A Girl of the Limberlost."

Oh, just as a side note, this book makes references to another tale by Gene Stratton Porter.  It is "Freckles," published around 1900.  It is not necessary to have read "Freckles" to appreciate "A Girl of the Limberlost." 

Silas Marner by Mary Anne Evans

     Gold.  Gold, glimmering in the firelight, is a lovely sight, but can it fill the deep longing all human beings have for companionship and belonging?
     In the rural English village of Raveloe lives a recluse weaver Silas Marner.  The villagers think he is mysterious and strange.  He has only lived in Raveloe fifteen years and he keeps to himself.  He is known to have unusual fits, and his eyes are large. 
     Falsely accused of stealing, Silas Marner finds refuge in Raveloe from his old church congregation.  Withdrawn from the world that has wounded him, Marner's only joy in life comes from selling his wares and counting his beloved gold coins.  It takes another robbery and a tragedy to bring the solitary man into a world of warmth, companionship, and hope.  And just when Silas Marner needs a miracle, a miracle comes to him and transforms his life forever.
     The old weaver, though, isn't the only person with troubles in Raveloe.  While Silas Marner is the main character, an interesting subplot revolves around the upper class Cass family: a subplot that frequently entertwines with the main one. 
     Squire Cass is Marner's landlord.  His pocket book is strained, and his two sons are also hard up for "ready cash."  Dunstin, the younger, gambles and drinks away his allowance, while Godfrey spends his in quite another fashion.  He is secretly married to a woman who lives in another town.  He has made a disgraceful alliance.  He is not proud of his wife and he cannot make his marriage known to anyone.  Dunstin knows of his brother's dilemma, and he uses this information to his advantage.  Godfrey spends his allowance secretly caring for his wife, a drunk, and their daughter and bribing his unscrupulous brother.  To make matters worse for Godfrey, he is in love with Raveloe's Nancy Lamiter.  Her father is well to do and his land borders the Cass's.  Mr. Cass is pressuring Godfrey to propose to Nancy, but Godfrey must miserably reject the very idea that would make him happy.
     Driven close to the breaking point and lacking moral courage, Godfrey recklessly agrees to let Dunstin take his horse to be sold to cover his debts.  Unreliable Dunstin makes several poor choices that eventually turn the entire tide of the story. 
     This tale is full of warm, colorful characters.  It is relatively short, compared to other works of literature of that day.  If you are unfamiliar with Victorian literature, I highly recommend this story as an introduction to this delightful genre.  Like Dicken's "A Christmas Carol," it is not long and it speaks to the heart. "Silas Marner the Weaver of Raveloe" is a tale of friendship, taking responsibility for a one's actions, and overcoming bitterness.

The Racketty-Packetty House

     A short story by Frances Hodgson Burnett.

     Before Pixar's Toy Story, there was Racketty-Packetty House.  In young Cynthia's nursery is a doll house.  It once belonged to her grandmamma, who was a little girl during the childhood of Queen Victoria.  Her grandmother loved and cared for the doll house and its 10 occupants.  Decades later, Cynthia receives the doll house.  Cynthia does not care much for the little run-down house and its shabby inhabitants.  Only six dolls still live in their dear home: Ridiklis, Meg, Peg, Kilmanskeg, Gustibus, and Peter Piper.  Embarrassed by its shabby appearance, Cynthia and her nurse hide "Racketty-Packetty House" behind a chair, out of sight.
     However, unknown to Cynthia, these little dolls have their own lives and personalities.  They play, dance, entertain, and shop whenever Cynthia is gone.  The five brothers and sisters and their maid are jolly souls who are good friends with the cat, the puppy, the Gentleman Mouse, the two cock sparrows, and the Fairies. 
     Their happy life changes when Cynthia is given Tidy Castle for her birthday.  It's a brand new doll house, inhabited by lords and ladies, gardeners and servants.  Cynthia devotes all her time to playing with these new dolls, forgetting completely about Racketty-Packetty House.  This is probably all for the better, because the nurse had threatened to burn the disgraceful house.  Hidden behind the chair, the little dolls' home is temporarily forgotten.
     The dolls enjoy watching the lords and ladies of Tidy Castle from their windows.  The dolls of Tidy Castle, though, look down their noses at the Racketty-Packetty dolls.  All except the lovely Lady Patsy.  She loves their jolly lifestyle.
     Danger threatens Racketty-Packetty House again.  A princess is coming to visit Cynthia, and the nurse decides that the old, run-down doll house must be burned.  Will Ridiklis, Meg, Peg, Kilmanskeg, Gustibus, and Peter Piper be homeless, or will their friends help to save their home?
     From "The Velveteen Rabbit" to "Racketty-Packetty House," the idea of toys coming alive and having special adventures is not new.  Each story is warm, amusing, and touching.  Although short in length, "Racketty-Packetty House" was fun to read, full of fantasy and imagination.


Illustration by Wendy Anderson Halperin

This is a perfect story to share with children.  My favorite edition of this book is illustrated by Wendy Anderson Halperin, 2006.  The pictures are enchanting.  I give it 5 stars!

June 2011 Preview

     Greetings, Readers!

     The theme for the month of June will be lady-writers.  The featured authoresses will be Frances Hodgson Burnett, Mary Anne Evans, and Gene Stratton-Porter. 
     Frances Hodgson Burnett wrote through the late Victorian and Edwardian era.  Her well-known books include The Secret Garden, The Lost Prince, & A Little Princess.
     Mary Anne Evans was a mid-Victorian authoress, who wrote under the pen name of George Elliot.  Her famous works include Middlemarch, Adam Bede, and The Mill on the Floss. 
     The last lady authoress is an American naturalist, Gene Stratton-Porter.  She wrote during the Edwardian era, and some of her works include The Song of the Cardinal & Freckles.  
     I look forward to sharing more book reviews with you in the upcoming month!

          ~ Katelyn

     If you like history and want a deeper understanding of the nuances and references found in Victorian/Edwardian novels, these books are wonderful sources.  I have enjoyed reading them and they have given me a greater appreciation not only for novels but for period movies based during the old-fashioned days.

"What Jane Austen Ate and Charles Dickens Knew: from Fox Hunting to Whist: the Facts of Daily Life in Nineteenth-Century England" by Daniel Pool.

"The Writer's Guide to Everyday Life in Regency - Victorian England from 1811 - 1901" by Kristine Hughes.

"Life in Victorian England: The Way People Live" by Duane C. Damon.  The Way People Live is a wonderful series, covering all sorts of interesting topics, from medieval to modern times.

"Inside the Victorian Home" by Judith Flanders.  This is my favorite resource.  It is incredible and an enjoyable read!

If you enjoy antique shopping, keep an eye out for old etiquette books.  I have purchased several, and they are full of fascinating information.  They can include remedies, fashion tips, and tea time.

Cornell Series of Standard Books

     Hello Readers!
In one of my antique shopping adventures, I came across this interesting little pamphlet, written for the school years of 1917-1918.

                 School Supplies
                          ~
                Catalogue
          From The Publishing Office of
          A. J. Fouch Company
          Warren, PA.
           Publishers, Manufacturers and Dealers
          School Supplies.
          Teachers' Supplies.
          Books, Cards, School Merchandise
                         ~
          We solicit and desire your patronage.
          A. J. Fouch Company, Warren, PA.
          Catalogue Edition 1917-1918.


     It has amazing lists of school supplies, from globes to school plays, and the prices for each item.  It was so much fun to see what students almost 100 years ago studied in school.

     On of the interesting lists I found, was "Cornell Series of Standard Books."  See how many of these books sound familiar to you!  How many have you read?

Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Caroll                       
Anderson's Fairy Tales by Hans Christian Anderson                  
Not Like Other Girls by Rosa Nouchette Carey
Aunt Diana by Rosa Nouchette Carey                                    
New Arabian Knights

Old Curiosity Shop by Charles Dickens
Biglow Papers by James Russell Lowell
Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens
Black Beauty by Anna Sewell
Black Rock, a Tale of the Selkirks by Ralph Connor
The Blithedale Romance by Nathaniel Hawthorne
A Book of Golden Deeds by Charlotte Yonge
The Courtship of Miles Standish by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Crown of Wild Olives by John Ruskin
David Copperfield by Charles Dickens
Diana of the Crossways by George Meredith
Donovan by Ada Ellen Bayly
East Lynne by Ellen Wood
English Orphans by Mary Jane Holmes
Esther, from the Bible
Gold Elsie by Eugenie Marlitt
Grandfather's Chair by Nathaniel Hawthorne
Green Mountain Boys by Daniel Pierce Thompson
Grimm's Household Tales by the Brothers Grimm
Gulliver's Travels by Jonathan Swift
House of Seven Gables by Nathaniel Hawthorne
In His Steps by Charles M. Sheldon
Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott
John Halifax, Gentleman by Dinah Maria Mulock Craik
The Lamplighter by Maria S, Cummins
Last Days of Pompeii by Edward Bulwer-Lytton
Last of the Mohicans by James Fenimore Cooper
Lena Rivers by Mary Jane Holmes
The Light that Failed by Rudyard Kipling
The Little Minister by J. M. Barrie
Longfellow's Poems by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Man in the Iron Mask by Alexandre Dumas
The Minister's Wooing by Harriet Beecher Stowe
Mysterious Island by Jules Verne
Mosses from an Old Manse by Nathaniel Hawthorne
The Oregon Trail by Francis Parkman
Our Bessie by Rosa Nouchette Cary
The Pathfinder by James Fenimore Cooper
Paul and Virginia by Jacques-Henri Bernardin de Saint-Pierre
The Phantom Rickshaw by Rudyard Kipling
Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan
The Pilot: A Tale of the Sea by James Fenimore Cooper
The Pioneers by James Fenimore Cooper
The Pleasures of Life by Sir John Lubbock
The Prairie: A Tale by James Fenimore Cooper
Red River by ?
Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe
Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne
Silas Marner by George Eliot
The Sketch Book by Washington Irving (essays)
The Spy by James Fenimore Cooper
St. Elmo by Augusta Jane Evans
Swiss Family Robinson Johann David Wyss
Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens
Tales of a Traveller by by Washington Irving (essays)
Tanglewood Tales by Nathaniel Hawthorne
Tempest and Sunshine by Mary Jane Holmes
Ten nights in a Bar Room by Timothy Shay Arthur
Tollers of the Sea by ?
Tom Brown at Oxford by Thomas Hughes
Tom Brown's School Days by Thomas Hughes
Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson
Two Admirals by James Fenimore Cooper
Uncle Tom's Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe
The Water Witch by James Fenimore Cooper
Whittier's Poems by John Greenleaf Whittier
A Wonder Book for Girls and Boys by James Fenimore Cooper 


     Quite a list of books!  I've only read nine of the books - am I behind!  They must have really held James Fenimore Cooper and Nathaniel Hawthorne in high regard.  Their names appear multiple times.  I've only read "Last of the Mohicans" by Cooper and nothing by Hawthorne.
     Perhaps, if you are doing the summer reading challenge, this list might give you some ideas.  I've started on the reading challenge, and I am reading "The Red Badge of Courage" by Stephen Crane.  If you would like to join me in the challenge, visit my post titled "Summer Reading Challenge!" May 17, 2011. 


Happy reading!

~ Katelyn

  

Summer Reading Challenge!

Dear Avid Readers,

     I apologize for my sporadic blogging.  There have been great demands on my time, and I find that there are not enough hours in the day, as they say. : )  I can hardly believe that month of May is half over!  I will not post three book reviews this month as I am already way behind schedule.  I will attempt to resume my usual schedule in June.  For May I will try to post some special editions and some interesting Victorian tips.
     As I finished classes last week, my summer has begun, and I would like to propose a "Summer Reading Challenge."  Please join me!  It'll be quite jolly. : )

     The challenge begins today, May 17th, and ends on September 1st.  The goal is to read four different books, all, with the exception of one, written before 1920:

1.  A book written by a author that you have never read before.
2.  A book that you have never read but written by an author that you like.
3.  A book written by an author that is not a native of your country.
4.  A book of your own choice!  It can be written at any time in history. 

     I hope you will join me in this summer reading challenge.  It will be lots of fun.  There are so many wonderful books out there: books by authors that will live forever and books by authors forgotten by the masses.  Visit your library, surf the web, or patronize an antique shop and you are sure to find wonderful treasures.  If you find any wonderful books this summer, I'd love to hear of your discoveries!  You can email me at kmpreuss@gmail.com. 
Happy reading!
~ Katelyn

The Adventure of Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson

     Is man completely good?  Or is he good and bad?  The nature of man is the theme of this psychological horror tale by Robert Louis Stevenson.  Add the foggy streets of Victorian London, with narrow lanes, and a mysterious door, and you have a delightfully creepy tale for the hours around midnight.

    Mr. Utterson and Mr. Richard Enfield are taking a walk through the roads of London.  Their way passes a mysterious corner of London:

     "Two doors from one corner on the left hand going east, the line was broken by the entry of a court; and just at that point a certain sinister block of building thrust forward its gable on the street.  It was two stories high; showed no window, nothing but a door on the lower story and a blind forehead of discoloured wall on the upper; and bore in every feature the marks of prolonged and sordid negligence.  The door which was equipped with neither bell nor knocker, was blistered and distained."*

     Mr. Enfield has an unusual connection to this dark place.  During one of his walks, he saw a terrible accident.  A man and a girl ran straight into each other, but, unlike any civil gentleman, the man "trampled calmly over the child's body and left her her screaming on the ground.  It sounds nothing to hear, but it was hellish to see."*  Mr. Enfield chased after the man and demanded restitution for the girl to the amount of 100 pounds.  To avoid a scene, the man agrees to the amount.  He takes Mr. Enfield to this very door in question, enters, and then reemerges with some of the money and a cheque.  Mr. Enfield tries to describe this horrible man to his friend, but "He is not easy to describe.  There is something wrong with his appearance; something displeasing, something downright detestable.  I never saw a man I so disliked; and yet I scarce know why."*  His name is Hyde.  And the name on the check is a Dr. Henry Jekyll.
     It is Mr. Utterson's turn to reveal some information to his friend.  He knows of this Mr. Hyde.  His friend and client, Dr. Jekyll, has left this man everything in his will.  Mr. Utterson, the lawyer, does not like the conditions of Jekyll's will.  He finds the terms disturbing: "in the case of the decease of Henry Jekyll . . ., all his possessions were to pass into the hands of his 'friend and benefactor Edward Hyde,' but that in the case of Dr. Jekyll's 'disappearance or unexplained absence for any period exceeding three calendar months,'"* Mr. Hyde will also inherit.
     Dr. Jekyll is a good, respectable man, and Mr. Utterson fears that Mr. Hyde may be blackmailing him for some youthful follies of years gone by.  Confused and concerned, Mr. Utterson discusses the mystery with a mutual friend of Jekyll, Dr. Lanyon.  Jekyll has been pursuing his own strange theories, and Dr. Lanyon has not seen him in a long time.
     When Utterson visits Jekyll, the latter seems calm and unconcerned about Hyde.  " '. . . I will tell you one thing: the moment I choose, I can be rid of Mr. Hyde. . . . this is a private matter, and I beg of you to let it sleep.' "*
     The advice to let sleeping dogs lie, lasts for almost a year.  Then a terrible murder is committed - and the murderer is Edward Hyde.  Greatly shaken, Jekyll declares that he has rid himself of Hyde.  The doctor's life changes suddenly.  He becomes more sociable, donates to charities, and attends church.  It appears that the doctor's life has changed for the better, and Mr. Hyde completely disappears.  But only for a short time.

     Although short in length, The Adventure of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is not small in literary stature.  The story excites imagination and thought.  The nature of man is a deep subject and controversial.  Is man by nature fully good?  If so, what causes him to do evil, commit horrid crimes, and completely disregard the people around him?  Some may say society forces people to turn to crime and vice.  However, what if man is both good and evil?  If so, where did the evil and where did the good come from?

*Stevenson, Robert Louis.  Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and Other Stories.  New York: Alfred A. Knopf, Inc., 1925.  Print.  From the series "Everyman's Library."

The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

     In the mid-18th century, the evil master of the Manor of Baskerville brings a curse down upon his descendants.  Wicked and selfish to the core, Sir Hugo Baskerville kidnaps a maiden from a nearby farm.  He locks her away in a room in his spacious manor.  While she awaits a terrible fate, he goes downstairs to sup and drink with his dishonorable friends.  The maiden, desperate, escapes and flees for her life across the dark moor.  Sir Hugo discovers her flight, and makes chase - with his hounds.
     Sir Hugo's friends follow him.  They stop a night shepherd to ask directions, and he replies that Sir Hugo was seen, running away from "a hound of hell."  Three of the men continue in their search, only to find death and horror.  The maiden is dead: "dead of fear and of fatigue."  Close to her form is the mutilated body of Sir Hugo, brought down by the hound.

     ". . . there stood a foul thing, a great, black beast, shaped like a hound, yet larger than any hound that ever mortal eye has rested upon.  And even as they looked the thing tore the throat out of Hugo Baskerville, on which, as it turned its blazing eyes and dripping jaws upon them, the three shrieked with fear and rode for dear life, still screaming, across the moor.  One, it is said, died that very night of what he had seen, and the other twain were but broken men for the rest of their days.
     "Such is the tale, my sons, of the coming of the hound which is said to have plagued the family so sorely ever since.  If I have set it down it is because that which is clearly known hath less terror than that which is but hinted at and guessed.  Nor can it be denied that many of the family have been unhappy in their deaths which have been sudden, bloody, and mysterious.  Yet may we shelter ourselves in the infinite goodness of Providence, which would not for ever punish the innocent beyond that third and fourth generation which is threatened in Holy Writ.  To that Providence, my sons, I hereby commend you, and I counsel you by way of caution to forbear from crossing the moor in those dark hours when the powers of evil are exalted."*  

     Now, in the later years of the nineteenth century, a descendant, Sir Charles Baskerville, lives in the shadow of this curse.  He is found dead in the grounds of his manor.  His body is found by his butler, Barrymore.  On Sir Charles's face is a look of horror.  The diagnosis is cardiac exhaustion.  His mysterious death is attributed to the Hound.
     Before his nephew and heir, Sir Henry Baskerville, can arrive at the manor, Dr. Mortimer brings the case, the legend, and his concerns for Sir Henry's safety to Mr. Sherlock Holmes at 221B Baker Street.  Holmes listens to the case, but appears to be little interested in this "supernatural" hound and the curse.  Instead, he sends Dr. Watson with Dr. Mortimer and Sir Henry to Baskerville Hall.  Dr. Watson's instructions are to write detailed reports and mail them to Holmes in London.
     The beginning of the novel follows Dr. Watson and his investigation and adventures at Baskerville Hall and the nearby village.  Besides meeting Barrymore and his wife, Watson makes the acquaintance of a neighbor, Mr. Stapleton and his sister, Miss Stapleton.  But the plot thickens, the night comes, and the houd roams the moore.
     An excellent edition of "The Hound of the Baskervilles" and other Sherlock Holmes mysteries is The Original Illustrated Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.  37 short stories and a complete novel from The Strand Magazine.  They are printed so as to look like they did in the magazine, and they include the dates when each story was released.  It an excellent book for all Sherlock Holmes fans. (This is not meant as an advertisement :), but as a suggestion for all book lovers and Holmes fans!)

     *All quotations are from this source:  
     Doyle, Arthur Conan.  "The Hound of the Baskervilles."  McClure, Philips & Co., 1902. Print.  Doyle, Arthur Conan.  "The Original Illustrated Sherlock Holmes."  Edison, New Jersey: CASTLE BOOKS, A Division of Book Sales, Inc.  Print.  

The Innocence of Father Brown by G. K. Chesterton

     G. K. Chesterton introduced us to the amusing, yet brilliant Father Brown in 1911 with his book "The Innocence of Father Brown."  These first twelve stories are not only amazing mysteries, but wonderful narrations and commentaries on life and how individuals view their world.  Perception, formed by our reality, really does affect how we act.  While Holmes investigates how the crime was committed and the motive behind the crime, Father Brown examines the psychological motives of the criminals.  These stories made me an instant Father Brown fan, and I hope you enjoy them, too!
  

     Here is a brief plot synopsis of each of the stories in The Innocence of Father Brown.   

     The Blue Cross: The internationally famous French investigator Valentin chases the infamous, genius French criminal Flambeau in England.  Valentin follows a trail of crazy clues, pursuing a tall priest and a short priest.    
     The Secret Garden:  When Father Brown attends a gathering at Valentin’s house, a man dies mysteriously in a garden that is surrounded by walls with only one entrance.  
     The Queer Feet: Father Brown goes to an exclusive club to hear the confessions of a dying man.  While he’s there, an amazing robbery occurs, right under the noses of the victims. 
     The Flying Stars:  Sir Leopold Fischer gives his goddaughter three precious African diamonds: a tempting conquest for any thief! 
     The Invisible Man: Miss Laura Hope has two unwanted suitors – Smythe and James Welkin.  When Smythe prepares to present his suite to Miss Hope, he receives a death warning from his rival James Welkin.
     The Honor of Israel Gow: Father Brown investigates the death of a Scottish earl.  He fears foul play, even witchcraft.    
     The Wrong Shape: Mr. Quinton is found dead in his room.  It appears to be suicide, but a clue points to a different conclusion.  What is the clue?  Mr. Quinton’s stationary is cut in the wrong shape. 
     The Sins of Prince Saradine: Prince Saradine, an Italian nobleman, has retired from the social whirl, and lives quietly.  Father Brown visits him with a friend and becomes acquainted with him, his butler, and housekeeper.  Little does he know that someone is seeking revenge and the prince’s life.   
     The Hammer of God: Once there were two brothers: a clergyman and a dandy.  One lives a life of virtue and piety; the other a life of sin and darkness.  As the clergyman prays in the church, sudden judgment comes upon his wicked brother.   
     The Eye of Apollo: Miss Pauline Stacey is defiant and determined to live life by her own rules.  She is a disciple of the mysterious worshiper of the sun, Kalon.  However, things turn very wrong one day at noon. 
     The Sign of the Broken Sword: General Sir Arthur St. Clare is remembered as a brave and noble soldier and martyr of England.  But are all heroes as great as history says? 
     The Three Tools of Death: An accusation, a distressed woman, a suspect.  Father Brown comes to comfort a suffering daughter, whose father has just been murdered by his secretary.  But perhaps events are not as clear as they first appear?    

Too busy to read a book?  I highly recommend this dramatic reading by Kevin O'Brien.  Each story is prefaced and ended by Dale Ahlquist, giving interesting information about the story and about G. K. Chesterton.  This CD album can be purchased at www.ignatius.com

  

Warning: if you do not like blood, gore, and violence, these stories are rather explicit, more so than the Sherlock Holmes mysteries.

Special Edition: Bobtail Dixie, Chapter I

     "Bobtail Dixie" by Abbie N. Smith.  My grandmother owned this book.  My grandmother lived next door, and I spent a lot of time with her.  I cannot really remember reading this book at her house.  I remember reading other books there, such as "Dandie: The Tale of the Yellow Cat" and "The Sunbonnet Babies Trip to Italy."  This book now sits on our bookshelves.
     Bobtail Dixie is a dog, owned by Preacher Smith and his family.  I have a copy of the 4th edition, copyrighted in 1901 by Abbey Press and 1902 by the authoress.  The story is in first person and told from the dog's perspective.  It is an interesting child's book, filled with photographs that act as illustrations, in addition to drawings.
     Following the Table of Contents is the dedication:  "To my nephews and nieces, this book is affectionately dedicated by the Author."  Chapter I is preambled by this question:  "Every dog has his day, why not I?"
     I have copied the first chapter of this charming little book.  Enjoy!

                                                    Chapter I.
                                         WHEN I WAS A PUPPY.

     First, you will want to know who I am and what I look like.  As far as I know, from glimpses I have caught of myself while drinking from a shiny tin basin, I am a little dog, white in color, except a dark brown mark over my right ear and eye; my eyes seem to match in color the brown on my ear, and I do not seem to have a tail worthy of mention.
     I was born "way down South in Dixie," on a farm, near Houston. Texas.  My master's name was Smith; perhaps you have heard the name before, as they say there are a great many Smiths in the world; but I am very sure that not one of them is quite as nice and good as my master Roy.  When a little boy, Roy was a great favorite of his grandfather, who loved animals and was kind to them, so perhaps that is the reason my master has always been kind and good to them, too.
     Roy owned several other dogs besides myself, and we did have such good times running around and playing on the farm.  One of our duties was to make some pigs stay where they belonged, and as there were no fences on our farm, we sometimes had great sport chasing the pigs out of the yard and garden.  It was funnier for us than for them, as we sometimes pulled their ear to teach them to stay at home.  Roy's grandfather said it reminded him of the way teachers used to pull the ears of unruly pupils in school.
     Our home was so happy I wanted to stay there always, but could not, as you will see.  It happened this way: an uncle of my master came to visit him, and Roy, who was very proud of us, showed us to the gentleman.
     "I have two little cousins, living up North, and I would like to send them a present; how do you think they would like one of my dogs?"  I heard master say as I listened to their conversation.
     I was greatly interested, and listened eagerly for his answer.  I heard the uncle say he was sure nothing would please them more, and as he and his wife were soon going to visit them, he would gladly take them a dog.  This excited me still more, and I thought, "Can it be they will select me?"  On second thought, I was sure there were handsomer and nicer dogs than I on the farm, though I am proud to say I am not a mongrel, but a real aristocratic dog.  I thought it would be a fine thing to go away and see more of the world, and I wanted to see those little children.  But I soon thought how I should miss the other dogs, even though we did not always agree, and sometimes grieved our kind master, who reproved us for quarreling.
     As I was one of the smallest dogs, I usually came out of a fight feeling very humble, and sometimes looking pretty rough.  But that is an unpleasant subject to me, so I will drop it.
     They took some time to decide which dog to take, looking us over very carefully several times.  Then they looked at me again, and my master said,"This is a cute little fellow and I believe I will send him, although I shall miss him."
     I was glad and sorry, too; but it did not seem to make much difference how I felt about the matter, for I was no consulted int eh least, thought it was to make such a difference in my life.
     I forgot to tell you that I was to be a Christmas present.  They knew Master Roy was to send them something, but had no idea it would be alive; probably thought it would be a drum or a doll; they surely did not think a little dog would go so far to see any one.
     At this time I was only three months old, but you know dogs know a great deal more than babies do at that age, at least they are not so helpless; for while babies cannot even creep, dogs can run real fast.  I will confess, though, that when babies do walk they walk on two legs, which the oldest and wisest of dogs cannot do, unless they are what are called trained dogs; and between you and me they do not like it, and never do it except when compelled to do so by their master, and then they drop down and walk on four legs just as soon as they dare.  They are not comfortable at all walking on two legs.  Some trained dogs are even dressed up like folks and try to act like them - the "Snyder Family," for instance, who, with their master, travel about giving exhibitions.  Roy took me to see them one day, and bought one of their pictures.  Would you like to see it?
                                             

      Isn't it an adorable photo?  I wonder if the child this book was given to enjoyed the story and smiled at the pictures.  My grandmother's copy has a little message written on the first page:  Miss Ruth Walters  Xmas
From Uncle Jim.  It was a sweet note.

     April update coming soon! 

"The Adventurs of Pinocchio" by Carolo Collodi

     Once there was a block of wood.  It had a life, albeit short, before it came into the hands of a woodcarver, named Geppetto.  This block of wood is nothing but trouble from the start.  As Geppetto carves out the legs and arms of his future puppet, his creation instantly strikes out and hurts him.  No wish or Blue Fairy are necessary here to bring the little marionette to life.  But do not fear, the Blue Fairy does play an important role in the overall story.
     Pinocchio has his share of adventures as he learns to be a good boy.  He is tempted by the Fox and the Blind Cat, kidnapped by Stromboli - the shady entertainer - and goes to "The Land of Toys."  Along the way, he meets many unusual and frightening characters with whom Disney fans will not be familiar.  Pinocchio spends most of his time searching for Geppetto or the Blue Fairy, who raises him as her boy.  For a time he lives with the Blue Fairy and obediently attends school.  Then, a couple of hours before he becomes a boy, he falls to the greatest temptation of running away from home with a bunch of other boys.  There at "The Land of Toys" all the boys turn into donkeys, including our little marionette friend - miserable, mute donkeys.
     After watching Disney's fun, family-friendly 1940 animated version of Collodi's fairytale, I figured I should read the original.  While it follows the basic plot line of Disney's classic, the book has many subplots and characters that did not make it into the movie.  The story is much darker than the film:  Pinocchio actually kills the Cricket who tries to help him, and, when he falls asleep by the fire, his little feet burn off.  Pinocchio is certainly not a character to be admired.  He constantly disobeys and is easily deceived by those who wish him harm.  Certainly most of us can relate to Pinocchio - we've given in to things we know we should not have, gone down the wrong roads, met the wrong people.  We repent and try to make things right, but the damage can already be done and may be pass repairing.
     Published in 1881, "The Adventures of Pinocchio" follows one puppet's journey from "puppethood" to boyhood.  It's a long lesson and a long journey to becoming a real boy, but it is well worth the sacrifice and struggles.    

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer

     Have you ever been to Hannibal, Missouri?  I visited this town many years ago.  I do not remember the setting very well, but after reading "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" I would like to return to the hometown of my favorite American storyteller.
     How many Mark Twain novels or short stories have you read?  I have read "The Prince & the Pauper," "A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court" and, for the first time, "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer."  There are many more that are on my Must Read list (for instance, Pudd'nhead Wilson & The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn).  Very American in tone, Twain's novels ring with independence, adventure, and essential scrapes and misadventures that accompany old-fashioned boyhood.
     Tom Sawyer is the mischievous, curly-haired boy from St. Petersburg, Missouri, who is always on the look out for trouble and danger.  The epitome of the independent, self-reliant American spirit of the early 1800s, Tom Sawyer steals our hearts and our attention from the beginning. He is always one step ahead of poor Aunt Polly, who adores him in spite of his naughtiness.  Quick as a jack-rabbit and as clever as a fox, Tom leaps from adventure to adventure. 
     Yes, Tom Sawyer is white-washing the fence as a punishment, but not for long.  Perhaps the neighborhood boys may be "coaxed" into helping him.  Also, there is the swell from St. Louis to be dealt with, not to mention the pretty Becky Thatcher, who is new to St. Petersburg.  But let's not forget the cemetery . . . at midnight!
     In a superstitious endeavor to get rid of warts, Tom Sawyer and his friend, the disreputable Huckleberry Finn, creep into the local cemetery.  However, warts are the last thing on their minds when they witness Injun Joe murder the town doctor and then lay the blame of the horrendous crime at drunk Muff Potter's door. Terrified of the ruthless Injun Joe, Tom and Huck make a pact never to tell a soul what they witnessed.  But when Muff Potter is charged with the murder and faces the hangman's noose, will Tom and Huck decide to tell the truth, even if it means their safety?
     St. Petersburg may be small in size, but it is not lacking in thrills and laughter.  The Adventures of Tom Sawyer is a perfect read for the spring or summer.  I hope you will decide to pick up this wonderful book and view the world through the imperfect, but strikingly honest, eyes of young Tom Sawyer. 

The Railway Children by E. Nesbit

     Bobbie (Roberta), Phyllis, and Peter have an idyllic home situation: a comfortable house, servants, and loving parents.  In one terrible evening everything changes.  Several men arrive at their London home, and soon the children learn that their father has had to leave home quite quickly on business.  Their mother spends much time away from home, seeing many people, and returning to her children weary and discouraged.  The servants whisper, but Mother does not tell Bobbie, Phyllis, or Peter where Father is.  They try to be understanding and be a support to her.    
     A second great change occurs when Mother announces that they must move from the city and take a home in the country.  They arrive by train late one evening in a small country English village.  From there they walk to their new home, "Three Chimneys."  The children love their new life in the country, even though the mystery surrounding their father hangs over their heads.
     Bobbie is a sweet, understanding older sister.  She is perceptive and tries to lessen Mother's burden.  Peter does his best to be the man of the house.  This duty drives him to commit a felony - but all comes out alright in the end.  Phyllis, like Bobbie, is sweet, but she is not quite as clever or quick as her siblings.  Her literal interpretation of phrases and pictures is humorous and adds lightness and comedy to the children's adventures.
     A train, the 9:15, passes through the village and the land adjoining their house.  They decide to wave to the train each morning, imagining that it will take their love to Father.  They create an unique friendship with one of the wealthy passengers.  They refer to him as the Old Gentleman.  He always waves back, and several times he plays an important role in their adventures and the outcome of their story.
     Bobbie, Phyllis, and Peter also make friends with Mr. Perks, who works at the train station, and decide to help him celebrate his birthday, which has almost disastrous results.  The other adventures of the Railway Children include a houseboat fire, an encounter with danger, a poor refugee, and a paper chase.
     The Railway Children may not take place in an exotic locale, but its magic is in its simplicity of life and characters.  It does not have a strong plot line; its enjoyment is in the little stories and subplots that fill their lives at the "Three Chimneys."  The people the children help and the people who help them, the loyalty and love of the family, and bravery and courage reside in this little story.  I hope you will join Bobbie, Phyllis, and Peter at the "Three Chimneys," wave to the 9:15, and remember the simple joys and hopes of childhood.

     If you're like me, you love great stories but cannot always find the time to sit down with the physical copy of the book. Whether I'm doing chores around the house or driving to school, I love having a good audiobook to listen to. I highly recommend this excellent recording of Edith Nesbit's classic children's story by Tantor.  It is performed by Renee Raudman. 

 

Victorian Courtship Tips

     Seeing a significant other?  Men and women have been dating or courting ever since the beginning of time.  Though I have never made it a particular study, I am certain that every country has its own particular dating/courting customs.
     I was hoping to finish this post a little bit closer to Valentine's Day, but school intervened, as usual!  Anyway, I would like to share some Victorian courtship tips from Manners, Cultures, and Dress of the Best American Society.  The writing style is enchanting and a good portion of the advice is well-grounded and applicable to the twenty-first century lady or gentleman.  I don't have time to copy all of the advice, but if you have any questions about what else this wonderful manual has to say about Victorian romance, please let me know!        ~ Katelyn

*A Lady’s Position

     A lady’s choice is only negative – that is to say, she may love, but she cannot declare her love; she must wait.  It is hers, when the time comes, to consent or to decline, but till the time comes she must be passive.  And whatever may be said in jest or sarcasm about it, this trial of a woman’s patience is often very hard to bear.

*A Gentleman’s Position

     A man may, and he will learn his fate at once, openly declare his passion, and obtain his answer.  In this he has great advantage over the lady.  Being refused, he may go elsewhere to seek a mate, if he be in the humor; try his fortune again, and mayhap be the lucky drawer of a princely prize.

     To a gentleman seeking a partner for life, we would say – look to it, that you be not entrapped by a beautiful face.

     “Regard not the figure, young man; look at the heart:

     The heart of a woman is sometimes deformed.”

*Conduct of a Gentleman toward Ladies

     A gentleman whose thoughts are not upon marriage should not pay too exclusive attentions to any one lady.  He may call upon all and extend invitations to any or all to attend public places of amusement with him, or may act as their escort on occasions, and no one of the many has any right to feel herself injured.  But as soon as he neglects others to devote himself to a single lady he gives that lady reason to suppose he is particularly attracted to her, and there is danger of her feelings becoming engaged.

*Love at First Sight

     No doubt there is such a thing as love at first sight, but love alone is a very uncertain foundation upon which to base a marriage.  There should be thorough acquaintanceship and a certain knowledge of harmony of tastes and temperaments before matrimony is ventured upon. 

*Unmanly Conduct

     Rejected suitors sometimes act as if they had received injuries they were abound to avenge, and so take every opportunity of annoying or slighting the helpless victims of their former attentions.  Such conduct is cowardly and unmanly, to say nothing of its utter violation of good breeding.  

* Wells, Richard A.  Manners, Culture, and Dress.  Springfield, Mass.: King, Richardson & Co., 1890. Print. 

Romances of Colonial Days by Geraldine Brooks

     My aunt gave me and my mom a copy of this collection of short romance tales about men and women who lived in the American Colonies.  On the third page of the book is an inscription in beautiful, old-fashioned script: From Marion.  Commencement May 26th 1904.  I'm always happy when I have a slight hint as to the book's history before it came to me.  I only wish Marion had written the name of her young friend. 
     This is the only book by Geraldine Brooks that I have ever read.  She writes such interesting stories.  I would like to collect the other books she wrote. I do not know exactly how you categorize her stories; it's neither non-fiction nor historical fiction.  This is part of what she says in the preface on the subject:

    Once a poet with the gold of fact and the alloy of his own fancy fashioned a poem which he called a "Ring."  In writing these "Romances of Colonial Days" I have endeavored to keep the poet's "Ring" always in mind, to make them rings of romance in which gold and alloy each has its part.  Musty old records, letters, and diaries of men and women long since dead have furnished me my gold; and it is surprising how much of gold, facts still breathing the life, the love, the joys and sorrows of bygone day, lies hidden in these dry-looking mines of history.*   

     I do not know to what extent her books are available in physical book format.  However, thanks to modern technology, her books are available for online reading at Internet Archive Search: Brooks, Geraldine

     Here is the table of contents and a brief synopsis of each short story.

                                          Romances of Colonial Days:

     I. In Mayflower Time (1621)

          The fabled romance of John Alden and Priscilla Mullins of Plymouth Plantation.  “Why don’t you speak for yourself, John?”

     II.  Beside the Water-Gate (1690)

          Marriage for love or for political alliance: the story of Abram Gouveneur, a Frenchman, and Mary Leisler, a Dutchwoman. 

     III.  The Secret of the Trees (1735)

          Daniel Parke Custis, a Virginia plantation owner, presents his suite of love to his cousin, Evelyn Byrd, at the honeysuckle gate.

     IV.  A Crown That Stung (1744)

          Agnes Surriage must choose whether to remain under the protection of her benefactor and love, Mr. Harry Frankland, or return to her home and loving family.

     V.  The Serving of a Laggard Lover (1751) 

          Miss Hannah Waldo of Boston has been engaged to Andrew Pepperell, the son of a baronet, for five years, but she is growing weary of the prolonged engagement.

     VI. The Wooing of a Governor (1760)

          Governor Benning Wentworth is keenly feeling the absence of wife and family as he faces the later years of his life. 

     VII. The Passing of a Sweetheart (1773)

          Dr. Benjamin Rush watches helplessly as his patient and sweetheart, Sally Eve, slowly fades away from him.

     VIII.  A Strain from the Mischianza (1778)

          Miss Peggy Chew is enjoying the company of the British officers – especially the attentions of Captain Andre.  Only a frightening dream mars her happiness. 

     IX.  In the Ambassador’s Garden (1785)

          Miss Abby Adams receives a letter from her father’s secretary, Colonel Smith, expressing his desire to win her heart when he returns.  This is the only story that takes place outside the United States. 
 
     After each story, Geraldine Brooks includes an epilogue.  I always appreciate and enjoy an epilogue, even if the story does not end the way I wish it would.  If you would like more information about these delightful stories, please let me know!  My own personal favorites are Beside the Water-Gate, The Serving of a Laggard Lover, and The Wooing of a Governor.  
     Happy Valentine's Day!


  *The clip from the preface and the titles of the chapters: Brooks, Geraldine.  Romances of Colonial Days.  New York: Thomas Y. Crowell & Company, 1903.  Print.

The Pearl of Orr's Island by Harriet Beecher Stowe

     A Story of the Coast of Maine.  
     Let us travel back in time - to the last days of the eighteenth century through the early days of the nineteenth century, to an island of the New England state Maine.  A young woman waits for the return of her husband, ship-master James Lincoln.  The woman's name is Naomi.  With her father Captain Zephaniah Pennel, she watches the ship draw close to land.  Suddenly, before their very eyes, the boat capsizes and sinks.  James Lincoln drowns.
     The tragedy throws Naomi Lincoln into labor.  That very day she gives birth to a girl, and then joins her husband in death.  Before she dies, Naomi names her daughter Mara, a Biblical name meaning 'bitter.'  Zephaniah and his wife Mary, a humble, God-fearing couple, raise their granddaughter in their small home on Orr's Island.  They are aided by the two spinster sisters Miss Roxy and Miss Ruey Toothacre, who figure prominently in the story.
     Mara is the sunshine of her grandparents' lives.  She is a blessing to them and lessens their ache at having lost both daughter and son-in-law.  She is different from most children.  Even as a very small child, she is quiet, pensive, yet cheerful.  Her dearest friend is Sally Kittridge, the daughter of Captain and Mrs. Kittridge.  They live a short walk away from Mara and her family.  Sally is several years older than Mara, but two enjoy playing together.  Captain Kittridge loves Mara, and he tells the girls wonderful stories - all exaggerated but nonetheless engrossing.  Mrs. Kittridge does not approve of her husband's yarns.  She is practical and serious.
     One night, when Mara is still a very little girl, she has a dream of a woman and a small boy.  The woman gives the boy to Mara and then disappears, leaving her child behind.  The next day, Mara and Sally play in the cove along the sea.  While they are playing, Sally finds a bracelet of hair with a lovely clasp.  Mara has a greater discovery: a woman on the beach, holding a small boy in her arms: Victims of a shipwreck.  The woman is dead, but the boy is alive.  No identification, beyond the bracelet, is found on the woman or her son.
     Zephaniah and Mary Pennel and Mara welcome the orphaned boy into their home.  They name him Moses, after the Biblical patriarch who, like the boy, was "drawn out of water."  The boy and girl become inseparable.  Mara takes the boy under her wing, becoming his guardian angel.  He grows up as Mara's brother and Captain and Mrs. Pennel's son.  He remembers nothing of his earlier life, being too young at the time of the shipwreck and his mother's death.
     The pastor of the parish is Rev. Theophilus Sewell.  He is a bachelor, and he lives with his sister, Miss Emily.  Miss Emily is a sweet lady and she adores her brother.  One evening Rev. Sewell and his sister visit the Pennels'.  Captain Pennel shows the hair bracelet and clasp, with the initials 'D.M,' to him.  It is the only link Moses has to his past.  Miss Emily notes a sudden, mysterious change that comes over her brother as he sees the hair bracelet and clasp.  When they return home, Rev. Sewell avoids her probing questions, and locks himself away in his room.
     Moses grows up into a rebellious, arrogant young man.  He admires Mara, a lovely young lady, but he little respects her, and he treats her unkindly.  He flirts with Sally Kittridge, now an independent, coquettish  young woman.  Mara, loving and loyal, has always loved Moses.  She suffers silently, yet remains true to her first and only love.
     Harriet Beecher Stowe's style in The Pearl of Orr's Island is, at times, conversational in tone.  She writes as a silent observer yet as part of her audience, addressing the reader with a familiar 'we' instead of the distant third person.  This mood is played to brilliance as she draws our attention to certain actions or away from certain moments.
     Although Mara was not one of my favorite characters in the story (until closer to the end), I loved Miss Roxy and Miss Ruey.  If you have seen the BBC mini-series Cranford, starring Eileen Atkins and Judi Dench as Miss Deborah and Miss Mattie Jenkins, you will see a striking resemblence in looks and temperament between these two sisters and Miss Roxy and Miss Ruey.
     My next favorite set of characters is Rev. Sewell and his sister Miss Emily.  Rev. Sewell is a refreshing change from the usual pastor-stereotype one finds in most books and films.  He is a character with depth and a surprising past.  He and Miss Emily have several humorous conversations.  Miss Emily is a kind soul, most likely the funniest character in the entire novel.
     I will warn you that the novel can crawl at times, but the story is intriguing.  At times I wanted to knock some sense into one character, and another time I wanted to shake a different character.  But when you care about the people in a story, you know that the author has beautifully created characters worthy of your attention.  

Wives and Daughters by Elizabeth Gaskell

     Little Molly Gibson lives in the small English town Hollingford with her father, Dr. Gibson.  Her mother is dead, and she is her kind father's companion.  In spite of his busy occupation, Dr. Gibson is a devoted father, and the two share a very close bond.
     When Molly is a young girl, Miss Browning and her sister Miss Phoebe take Molly to the grand tea at Lord and Lady Cumnor's estate.  It is a very exciting event for Molly - her first tea at the Cumnor's.  During the festivities, Molly falls asleep.  She is found by one of Lady Cumnor's daughters and her governess, Claire Kirkpatrick.  Lady Cumnor's daughter takes pity on Molly and offers to let her rest in Claire's room.  The Misses Brownings, each thinking the other has their young charge, leave the tea and poor Molly. When she wakes up and comes downstairs, it is evening.  She eats with the children, but she does not enjoy her stay with nobility.  Dr. Gibson arrives and takes her home.
     The story jumps forward several years.  Molly is now a young lady, and she has a secret admirer - so secret that even she does not yet know it.  The young man is a medical apprentice of her father.  Dr. Gibson does not approve of him.  To derail the man's infatuation with his daughter, Dr. Gibson sends Molly to visit Hamely Hall.
     Hamely Hall is the home of Squire Hamley and his invalid wife.  They are good friends of Dr. Gibson, and Molly finds a second home here.  She spends most of her time with Mrs. Hamley.  Mrs. Hamley has two sons, both away at college.  The oldest is Osborne and younger is Roger.  Osborne is the favorite of both father and mother.  He is very talented and clever, and Squire Hamley has high hopes of his marrying well and restoring the failing fortunes of the family.  Roger is the quieter son and lives in the shadow of his brother.  After hearing Mrs. Hamley's high praise of Osborne, Molly eagerly looks forward to meeting him.
     Trouble visits the family when Roger arrives with the horrible and despairing news that Osborne has done badly in his exams and he will not receive a fellowship (this, if I remember correctly, was a recognition of his academic standing: he would have a position at the university, and he would receive a salary).  Molly tries to comfort Squire and Mrs. Hamley, but they are so disappointed in Osborne.  Squire Hamley especially so.
     Though she has become partial towards Osborne, Molly forms a friendship with Roger.  He is a naturalist and very smart.  He is not eloquent but sincere and kind.  She becomes like a sister to him, as she has become a daughter to Squire and Mrs. Hamley.
     Molly's happy world is shaken when her father tells her some startling news: he is going to remarry.  His choice of bride is the widow Mrs. Hyacinth Kirkpatrick, former governess to Lord and Lady Cumnor's children.  She was then called "Claire," and not Hyacinth.  Mrs. Kirkpatrick has one daughter, Cynthia.  She is studying in France and does not attend the wedding.  From the beginning, the new Mrs. Gibson changes the whole order of the life Molly once knew.  Mrs. Gibson is rather inconsiderate and self-serving.  These two flaws affect her entire character and how she interacts with her new step-daughter and family friends.
     When Mrs. Hamley's delicate health steadily worsens, Molly returns to her dear friend's side.  Roger and the disgraced Osborne are called home, and Molly finally has the pleasure of meeting the son and heir of the Hamley estate.  Molly likes him, but it is Roger with whom she is falling in love.  However, it takes Cynthia to realize this.
     Of all the changes taking place in her life, Molly enjoys having a step-sister the most.  Cynthia comes to live with the Gibsons’, and soon the two girls are close friends.  Cynthia is lovely and winsome, but she, like her mother, is self-centered and enjoys flirting.  Roger falls victim to her smiles and charm.  Too late does Molly realizes that she cares for Roger as more than just a brother.
     When Mrs. Gibson, who prefers Osborne to Roger, invites the young Hamley gentlemen to dinner, Molly accidentally overhears a secret the two brothers are guarding very carefully.  She promises to protect their secret, and, as time passes, Molly keeps another secret for someone else, a secret that nearly ruins her own reputation.
      Wives and Daughters is the last novel Elizabeth Gaskell wrote.  In fact, she died before finishing it.  I did not realize this until I came to the last page of the book.  I was greatly disappointed because I was enjoying myself immensely.  Fortunately, the novel was almost complete before her untimely death and you can guess how it ended.

Wives & Daughters

     If you enjoy Jane Austen's novels you will enjoy Wives and Daughters.  It deals slightly with the theme that gentlemen of higher rank should not marry below their station, and it portrays a strong bond between father and daughter which is reminiscent of the strong relationship between Elizabeth Bennett and her father.  Like Elinor Dashwood and Anne Elliot, Molly must face her romantic disappointments quietly as she watches another accept the attentions of the man she loves.  
     If you have seen BBC's miniseries of Wives and Daughters starring Justine Waddell, you will be surprised at how close it is to the novel.  Andrew Davies, the screenplay writer, kept very close to Gaskell's original tale, and I love Justine Waddell's portrayal of little Molly Gibson.  I highly recommend both the series and the book. 
     Not only is Wives and Daughters a delightful story full of terrific characters, it offers a peek into the life - culturally and socially - of early Victorians.  The novel is full of nuances to books, laws, and customs that the average 21st century reader knows little or nothing about.  I love history and for all those that do, I recommend the Penguin Classic edition of this book.  Penguin Classics offers a very detailed section at the back of the book to the explanation of these cultural and social references, providing the reader with a rich and complete understanding of this romantic tale.

Here is a link to the first part of the BBC miniseries: YouTube: Wives & Daughters