The quiet life of an average American boy would not seem to furnish very much worth the telling. The boy patroon differed little, save in the way of birth and vast estate, from other boys and girls of the eventful age in which he lived; but many instances in his youthful career could safely be recorded. We might tell how he came home from college just as the great war was closing; how he made long trips, on horseback and afoot, over his great estate, acquainting himself with his tenantry and their needs; how, even before he was twenty years old, he followed the custom of his house and married fair Mistress Margery, the "brave girl" of the Schuyler mansion; and how, finally, on the first of November, 1785, all the tenantry of Rensselaerswyck thronged the grounds of the great manor-house, and, with speech and shout and generous barbecue, celebrated his coming of age—the twenty-first birthday of the boy patroon,—now no longer boy or patroon, but a free American citizen in the new Republic of the United States.

His after-life is part of the history of his State and of his country. At an early age he entered public life, and filled many offices of trust and responsibility. An assemblyman, a State Senator, a lieutenant-governor, a member of Congress, a major-general, and the conqueror of Queenstown in Canada in the War of 1812, one of the original projectors of the great Erie Canal, and, noblest of all, the founder and patron of a great school for boys,—the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute at Troy,—he was, through all, the simple-hearted citizen and the noble-minded man. But no act in all his long life-time of seventy-five years became him better than the spirit in which he accepted the great change that made the great lord patroon of half a million acres the plain, untitled citizen of a free republic.

"Though born to hereditary honors and aristocratic rank," says his biographer, "with the history of the past before him, in possession of an estate which connected him nearly with feudal times and a feudal ancestry, and which constituted him in his boyhood a baronial proprietor, he found himself, at twenty-one, through a forcible and bloody revolution, the mere fee-simple owner of acres, with just such political rights and privileges as belonged to his own freehold tenantry, and no other." And though the Revolution, in giving his country independence, had stripped him of power and personal advantages, he accepted the change without regret, and preferred his position as one in a whole nation of freemen, to that feudal rank which he had inherited from generations of ancestors, as the Boy Patroon, the last Lord of the Manor of Rensselaerswyck.

* * * * *

From the patrician emperor of old Rome to the patrician citizen of modern America these sketches of Historic Boys have extended. They represent but a few from that long list of remarkable boys, who, through the ages, have left their mark upon their times,—lads who, even had they died "in their teens," would still have been worthy of record as "historic boys." The lessons of their lives are manifold. They tell of pride and selfishness, of tyranny and wasted power, of self-reliance and courage, of ambition and self-conquest, of patience and manliness. History is but the record of opportunities for action availed of or neglected. And opportunities are never wanting. They exist to-day in the cities of the New World, even as they did ages ago with young David in the valley of Elah, with the boy Marcus in the forum of Rome, or with the valiant young Harry of Monmouth striving for victory on the bloody field of Shrewsbury.

Whenever or wherever a manly boy says his word for justice and for right, or does his simple duty in a simple, straightforward way, regardless of consequences or of the world's far too-ready sneer or frown, the stamp of the hero may be seen; and however humble his condition or contracted his sphere there is in him the mettle and the possibilities that may make him, even though he know it not, a worthy claimant for an honored place on the world's record of Historic Boys.

THE END.



FOOTNOTES:

[AL] The Fuyck, or fish-net,—an old Dutch name for Albany.

[AM] Commissioners and sheriffs.

[AN] Mush and milk.

[AO] A kind of chopped meat.

[AP] One of the old Dutch "show houses" of Albany 100 years ago.



"A better collection of juvenile books it has not been our privilege to examine. A robust and healthy tone pervades their pages; and while stirring adventures, deeds of daring, and self-sacrifice form an important factor in the stories, information, historical or otherwise, constitutes a primary feature."—Christmas Bookseller, 1885.

BLACKIE & SON'S BOOKS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE.

The New Season's Books.

BY G. A. HENTY.

THE YOUNG CARTHAGINIAN: A STORY OF THE TIMES OF HANNIBAL.

WITH WOLFE IN CANADA: OR, THE WINNING OF A CONTINENT.

THE BRAVEST OF THE BRAVE: OR, WITH PETERBOROUGH IN SPAIN.

A FINAL RECKONING: A TALE OF BUSH LIFE IN AUSTRALIA.

BY G. MANVILLE FENN.

DEVON BOYS: A TALE OF THE NORTH SHORE.

YUSSUF THE GUIDE: BEING THE STRANGE STORY OF THE TRAVELS IN ASIA MINOR OF BURNE THE LAWYER, PRESTON THE PROFESSOR, AND LAWRENCE THE SICK.

BY HARRY COLLINGWOOD.

THE LOG OF THE "FLYING FISH": A STORY OF AERIAL AND SUBMARINE PERIL AND ADVENTURE.

BY ALICE CORKRAN.

DOWN THE SNOW STAIRS: OR, FROM GOOD-NIGHT TO GOOD-MORNING. With 60 illustrations by Gordon Browne.

BY DOUGLAS FRAZAR.

PERSEVERANCE ISLAND: OR, THE ROBINSON CRUSOE OF THE 19TH CENTURY.

BY J. PERCY GROVES.

REEFER AND RIFLEMAN: A Tale of the Two Services.

BY JOHN C. HUTCHESON.

THE WHITE SQUALL: A Story of the Sargasso Sea.

TEDDY: The Story of a "Little Pickle."

BY E. S. BROOKS.

HISTORIC BOYS: THEIR ENDEAVOURS, THEIR ACHIEVEMENTS, AND THEIR TIMES.

BY EVELYN EVERETT GREEN.

THE EVERSLEY SECRETS.

BY R. STEAD.

THE LADS OF LITTLE CLAYTON. STORIES OF VILLAGE BOY LIFE.

BY LAURA E. RICHARDS.

THE JOYOUS STORY OF TOTO.

TALES OF CAPTIVITY AND EXILE.

BY CAROLINE AUSTIN.

DOROTHY'S DILEMMA: A Tale of the Time of Charles I.

BY ROSA MULHOLLAND.

THE LATE MISS HOLLINGFORD.

BY AMY WALTON.

THE HAWTHORNES.

OUR FRANK, AND OTHER STORIES.

GORDON BROWNE'S SERIES OF OLD FAIRY TALES.

HOP O' MY THUMB.

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST.

Also, New Books in the Shilling, Ninepenny, and Sixpenny Series.

By F. BAYFORD HARRISON, Mrs. GEO. CUPPLES, MARY C. ROWSELL, ANNIE S. FENN, EMMA LESLIE, and other favourite Authors.

DOWN THE SNOW STAIRS:

Or, From Good-night to Good-morning. By ALICE CORKRAN. With 60 character Illustrations by GORDON BROWNE. Square crown 8vo, cloth elegant, gilt edges, 6s.



This is a remarkable story: full of vivid fancy and quaint originality. In its most fantastic imaginings it carries with it a sense of reality, and derives a singular attraction from that combination of simplicity, originality, and subtle humour which is so much appreciated by lively and thoughtful children. Children of a larger growth will also be deeply interested in Kitty's strange journey: and her wonderful experiences amidst the extraordinary people whom she meets. The work is profusely illustrated by an artist whose facile pencil has portrayed alike the graceful and the grotesque, the images of goblin and fairy land and the semblances of child life.

BY PROFESSOR CHURCH.

TWO THOUSAND YEARS AGO:

Or, The Adventures of a Roman Boy. By Professor A. J. CHURCH, Author of "Stories from the Classics." With 12 full-page Illustrations by ADRIEN MARIE, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, olivine edges, 6s.

Prof. Church has in this story sought to revivify that most interesting period, the last days of the Roman Republic. The hero of the story, Lucius Marius, is a young Roman who has a very chequered career, being now a captive in the hands of Spartacus, again an officer on board a vessel detailed for the suppression of the pirates, and anon a captive once more, on a pirate ship. He escapes to Tarsus, is taken prisoner in the war with Mithradates, and detained by the latter in Pontus for a number of years.

While boys will follow with the deepest interest the career of Lucius, they will gain a clear insight into the history and life of the ancient Roman world.

"Adventures well worth the telling. The book is extremely entertaining as well as useful, and there is a wonderful freshness in the Roman scenes and characters."—The Times.

"Entertaining in the highest degree from beginning to end, and full of adventure which is all the livelier for its close connection with history."—Spectator.

"We know of no book which will do more to make the Romans of that day live again for the English reader."—Guardian.

BY PROFESSOR POUCHET.

THE UNIVERSE:

OR THE INFINITELY GREAT AND THE INFINITELY LITTLE. A Sketch of Contrasts in Creation, and Marvels revealed and explained by Natural Science. By F. A. POUCHET, M.D. Illustrated by 273 Engravings on wood. 9th Edition, medium 8vo, cloth elegant, gilt edges, 7s. 6d.; morocco antique, 16s.

The object of this Work is to inspire and extend a taste for natural science. It is not a learned treatise, but a simple study. The title adopted indicates that the author has gathered from creation at large, often contrasting the smallest of its productions with the mightiest.

"We can honestly commend this work, which is admirably, as it is copiously illustrated."—Times.

"As interesting as the most exciting romance, and a great deal more likely to be remembered to good purpose."—Standard.

"Scarcely any book in French or in English is so likely to stimulate in the young an interest in the physical phenomena."—Fortnightly Review.

"The volume, and it is a splendid one, will serve as a good pioneer to more exact studies."—Saturday Review.

BY G. A. HENTY.

"Surely Mr. Henty should understand boys' tastes better than any man living."—The Times.

THE YOUNG CARTHAGINIAN:

A Story of the Times of Hannibal. By G. A. HENTY. With 12 full-page Illustrations by C. J. STANILAND, R.I. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, olivine edges, 6s.

When boys at school read of the history of the Punic Wars their appreciation of the merits of the struggle between the Romans and Carthaginians is usually slight. That it was at first a struggle for empire, and afterwards one for existence on the part of Carthage, that Hannibal was a great and skilful general, that he defeated the Romans at Trebia, Lake Trasimenus, and Cannae, and all but took Rome, and that the Romans behaved with bad faith and great cruelty at the capture of Carthage, represents pretty nearly the sum total of their knowledge.

To let them know more about this momentous struggle for the empire of the world Mr. Henty has written this story, which not only gives in graphic style a brilliant description of a most interesting period of history, but is a tale of exciting adventure sure to secure the interest of the reader.

THE LION OF THE NORTH.

A Tale of Gustavus Adolphus and the Wars of Religion. By G. A. HENTY. With 12 full-page Illustrations by JOHN SCHOENBERG, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, olivine edges, 6s.

In this story Mr. Henty gives the history of the first part of the Thirty Years' War, a struggle unprecedented in length, in the fury with which it was carried on, and in the terrible destruction and ruin which it caused. The issue had its importance, which has extended to the present day, as it established religious freedom in Germany. The army of the chivalrous King of Sweden, the prop and maintenance of the Protestant cause, was largely composed of Scotchmen, and among these was the hero of the story. The chief interest of the tale turns on the great struggle between Gustavus and his chief opponents Wallenstein, Tilly, and Pappenheim.

"As we might expect from Mr. Henty the tale is a clever and instructive piece of history, and as boys may be trusted to read it conscientiously, they can hardly fail to be profited as well as pleased."—The Times.

"A praiseworthy attempt to interest British youth in the great deeds of the Scotch Brigade in the ware of Gustavus Adolphus. Mackay, Hepburn, and Munro live again in Mr. Henty's pages, as those deserve to live whose disciplined bands formed really the germ of the modern British army."—Athenaeum.

"A stirring story of stirring times. This book should hold a place among the classics of youthful fiction."—United Service Gazette.

BY G. A. HENTY.

"Mr. Henty as a boy's story-teller stands in the very foremost rank."—Glasgow Herald.

WITH WOLFE IN CANADA:

Or, The Winning of a Continent. By G. A. HENTY. With 12 full-page Illustrations by GORDON BROWNE. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, olivine edges, 6s.

In the present volume Mr. Henty has endeavoured to give the details of the principal events in the struggle between Britain and France for supremacy on the North American continent. The importance of this struggle can scarcely be overrated, as on the issue of it depended not only the destinies of North America, but to a large extent those of the mother countries themselves. The fall of Quebec decided that the Anglo-Saxon race should predominate in the New World, that Britain, and not France, should take the lead among the nations, and that English commerce, the English language, and English literature, should spread right round the globe. While thus of the greatest significance, this episode from the world's history lends itself pre-eminently to the romantic style of treatment of which Mr. Henty is master.

WITH CLIVE IN INDIA:

Or the Beginnings of an Empire. By G. A. HENTY. With 12 full-page Illustrations by GORDON BROWNE, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, olivine edges, 6s.

The period between the landing of Clive as a young writer in India and the close of his career was critical and eventful in the extreme. At its commencement the English were traders existing on sufferance of the native princes. At its close they were masters of Bengal and of the greater part of Southern India. The author has given a full and accurate account of the events of that stirring time, and battles and sieges follow each other in rapid succession, while he combines with his narrative a tale of daring and adventure, which gives a life-like interest to the volume.

"In this book Mr. Henty has contrived to exceed himself in stirring adventures and thrilling situations. The pictures add greatly to the interest of the book."—Saturday Review.

"Among writers of stories of adventure for boys Mr. Henty stands in the very first rank, and Mr. Gordon Browne occupies a similar place with his pencil.... Those who know something about India will be the most ready to thank Mr. Henty for giving them this instructive volume to place in the hands of their children."—Academy.

"He has taken a period of Indian History of the most vital importance, and he has embroidered on the historical facts a story which of itself is deeply interesting. Young people assuredly will be delighted with the volume."—Scotsman.

BY G. A. HENTY.

"The brightest of all the living writers whose office it is to enchant the boys."—Christian Leader.

THROUGH THE FRAY:

A Story of the Luddite Riots. By G. A. HENTY. With 12 full-page Illustrations by H. M. PAGET, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, olivine edges, 6s.

The author in this story has followed the lines which he worked out so successfully in Facing Death. As in that story he shows that there are victories to be won in peaceful fields, and that steadfastness and tenacity are virtues which tell in the long run. The story is laid in Yorkshire at the commencement of the present century, when the high price of food induced by the war and the introduction of machinery drove the working-classes to desperation, and caused them to band themselves in that widespread organization known as the Luddite Society. There is an abundance of adventure in the tale, but its chief interest lies in the character of the hero, and the manner in which by a combination of circumstances he is put on trial for his life, but at last comes victorious "through the fray."

"Mr. Henty inspires a love and admiration for straightforwardness, truth, and courage. This is one of the best of the many good books Mr. Henty has produced, and deserves to be classed with his Facing Death."—Standard.

"The interest of the story never flags. Were we to propose a competition for the best list of novel writers for boys we have little doubt that Mr. Henty's name would stand first."—Journal of Education.

TRUE TO THE OLD FLAG:

A Tale of the American War of Independence. By G. A. HENTY. With 12 full-page Illustrations by GORDON BROWNE, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, olivine edges, 6s.

In this story the author has gone to the accounts of English officers who took part in the conflict, and lads will find that in no war in which British soldiers have been engaged did they behave with greater courage and good conduct. The historical portion of the book being accompanied with numerous thrilling adventures with the redskins on the shores of Lake Huron, a story of exciting interest is interwoven with the general narrative and carried through the book.

"Does justice to the pluck and determination of the British soldiers during the unfortunate struggle against American emancipation. The son of an American loyalist, who remains true to our flag, falls among the hostile redskins in that very Huron country which has been endeared to us by the exploits of Hawkeye and Chingachgook."—The Times.

"Mr. G. A. Henty's extensive personal experience of adventures and moving incidents by flood and field, combined with a gift of picturesque narrative, make his books always welcome visitors in the home circle."—Daily News.

"Very superior in every way. The book is almost unique in its class in having illustrative maps."—Saturday Review.

BY G. A. HENTY.

"Mr. Henty's books never fail to interest boy readers."—Academy.

IN FREEDOM'S CAUSE:

A Story of Wallace and Bruce. By G. A. HENTY. With 12 full-page Illustrations by GORDON BROWNE, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, olivine edges, 6s.

In this story the author relates the stirring tale of the Scottish War of Independence. The extraordinary valour and personal prowess of Wallace and Bruce rival the deeds of the mythical heroes of chivalry, and indeed at one time Wallace was ranked with these legendary personages. The researches of modern historians have shown, however, that he was a living, breathing man—and a valiant champion. The hero of the tale fought under both Wallace and Bruce, and while the strictest historical accuracy has been maintained with respect to public events, the work is full of "hairbreadth 'scapes" and wild adventure.

"Mr. Henty has broken new ground as an historical novelist. His tale is full of stirring action, and will commend itself to boys."—Athenaeum.

"It is written in the author's best style. Full of the wildest and most remarkable achievements, it is a tale of great interest, which a boy, once he has begun it, will not willingly put on one side."—The Schoolmaster.

"Scarcely anywhere have we seen in prose a more lucid and spirit-stirring description of Bannockburn than the one with which the author fittingly closes his volume."—Dumfries Standard.

UNDER DRAKE'S FLAG:

A Tale of the Spanish Main. By G. A. HENTY. Illustrated by 12 full-page Pictures by GORDON BROWNE, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, olivine edges, 6s.

A story of the days when England and Spain struggled for the supremacy of the sea, and England carried off the palm. The heroes sail as lads with Drake in the expedition in which the Pacific Ocean was first seen by an Englishman from a tree-top on the Isthmus of Panama, and in his great voyage of circumnavigation. The historical portion of the story is absolutely to be relied upon, but this, although very useful to lads, will perhaps be less attractive than the great variety of exciting adventure through which the young adventurers pass in the course of their voyages.

"A stirring book of Drake's time, and just such a book as the youth of this maritime country are likely to prize highly."—Daily Telegraph.

"Ned in the coils of the boa-constrictor is a wonderful picture. A boy must be hard to please if he wishes for anything more exciting."—Pall Mall Gazette.

"A book of adventure, where the hero meets with experience enough one would think to turn his hair gray."—Harper's Monthly Magazine.

BY G. A. HENTY.

"Mr. Henty is the prince of story-tellers for boys."—Sheffield Independent.

THE BRAVEST OF THE BRAVE:

Or, With Peterborough in Spain. By G. A. HENTY. With 8 full-page Illustrations by H. M. PAGET. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 5s.

There are few great leaders whose lives and actions have so completely fallen into oblivion as those of the Earl of Peterborough. This is largely due to the fact that they were overshadowed by the glory and successes of Marlborough. His career as General extended over little more than a year, and yet, in that time, he showed a genius for warfare which has never been surpassed, and performed feats of daring worthy of the leaders of chivalry.

Round the fortunes of Jack Stilwell, the hero, and of Peterborough, Mr. Henty has woven an interesting and instructive narrative descriptive of this portion of the War of the Spanish Succession (1705-6).

THE DRAGON AND THE RAVEN:

Or, The Days of King Alfred. By G. A. HENTY. With 8 full-page Illustrations by C. J. STANILAND, R.I., in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 5s.

In this story the author gives an account of the desperate struggle between Saxon and Dane for supremacy in England, and presents a vivid picture of the misery and ruin to which the country was reduced by the ravages of the sea-wolves. The hero of the story, a young Saxon thane, takes part in all the battles fought by King Alfred, and the incidents in his career are unusually varied and exciting. He is driven from his home, takes to the sea and resists the Danes on their own element, and being pursued by them up the Seine, is present at the long and desperate siege of Paris.

"Perhaps the best story of the early days of England which has yet been told."—Court Journal.

"A well-built superstructure of fiction on an interesting substratum of fact. Treated in a manner most attractive to the boyish reader."—Athenaeum.

"A story that may justly be styled remarkable. Boys, in reading it, will be surprised to find how Alfred persevered, through years of bloodshed and times of peace, to rescue his people from the thraldom of the Danes. We hope the book will soon be widely known in all our schools."—Schoolmaster.

"We know of no popular book in which the stirring incidents of the reign of the heroic Saxon king are made accessible to young readers as they are here. Mr. Henty has made a book which will afford much delight to boys, and is of genuine historic value."—Scotsman.

BY G. A. HENTY.

"Mr. Henty is one of the best of story-tellers for young people."—Spectator.

A FINAL RECKONING:

A Tale of Bush Life in Australia. By G. A. HENTY, With 8 full-page Illustrations by W. B. WOLLEN. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 5s.

In this book Mr. Henty has again left the battlefields of history and has written a story of adventure in Australia in the early days of its settlement, when the bush-rangers and the natives constituted a real and formidable danger.

The hero, a young English lad, after rather a stormy boyhood, emigrates to Australia, where he gets employment as an officer in the mounted police.

A few years of active work on the frontier, where he has many a brush with both natives and bush-rangers, gain him promotion to a captaincy. In that post he greatly distinguishes himself, and finally leaves the service and settles down to the peaceful life of a squatter.

ST. GEORGE FOR ENGLAND:

A Tale of Cressy and Poitiers. By G. A. HENTY. With 8 full-page Illustrations by GORDON BROWNE, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 5s.

No portion of English history is more crowded with great events than that of the reign of Edward III. Cressy and Poitiers laid France prostrate at the feet of England; the Spanish fleet was dispersed and destroyed by a naval battle as remarkable in its incidents as was that which broke up the Armada in the time of Elizabeth. Europe was ravaged by the dreadful plague known as the Black Death, and France was the scene of the terrible peasant rising called the Jacquerie. All these stirring events are treated by the author in St. George for England. The hero of the story, although of good family, begins life as a London apprentice, but after countless adventures and perils, becomes by valour and good conduct the squire, and at last the trusted friend of the Black Prince.

"A story of very great interest for boys. In his own forcible style the author has endeavoured to show that determination and enthusiasm can accomplish marvellous results; that courage is generally accompanied by magnanimity and gentleness, and that it is the parent of nearly all the other virtues, since but few of them can be practised without it."—Pall Mall Gazette.

"Mr. Henty has developed for himself a type of historical novel for boys which bids fair to supplement, on their behalf, the historical labours of Sir Walter Scott in the land of fiction."—Standard.

"Mr. Henty as a boy's story-teller stands in the very foremost rank. With plenty of scope to work upon he has produced a strong story at once instructive and entertaining."—Glasgow Herald.

BY G. A. HENTY.

"Among writers of stories of adventure for boys Mr. Henty stands in the very first rank."—Academy.

FOR NAME AND FAME:

Or, Through Afghan Passes. By G. A. HENTY. With 8 full-page Illustrations by GORDON BROWNE, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 5s.

This is an interesting story of the last war in Afghanistan. The hero, after being wrecked and going through many stirring adventures among the Malays, finds his way to Calcutta, and enlists in a regiment proceeding to join the army at the Afghan passes. He accompanies the force under General Roberts to the Peiwar Kotal, is wounded, taken prisoner, and carried to Cabul, whence he is transferred to Candahar, and takes part in the final defeat of the army of Ayoub Khan.

"Mr. Henty's pen is never more effectively employed than when he is describing incidents of warfare. The best feature of the book—apart from the interest of its scenes of adventure—is its honest effort to do justice to the patriotism of the Afghan people."—Daily News.

"Here we have not only a rousing story, replete with all the varied forms of excitement of a campaign, but an instructive history of a recent war, and, what is still more useful, an account of a territory and its inhabitants which must for a long time possess a supreme interest for Englishmen, as being the key to our Indian Empire."—Glasgow Herald.

BY SHEER PLUCK:

A Tale of the Ashanti War. By G. A. HENTY. With 8 full-page Illustrations by GORDON BROWNE, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 5s.

The Ashanti Campaign seems but an event of yesterday, but it happened when the generation now rising up were too young to have made themselves acquainted with its incidents. The author has woven, in a tale of thrilling interest, all the details of the campaign, of which he was himself a witness. His hero, after many exciting adventures in the interior, finds himself at Coomassie just before the outbreak of the war, is detained a prisoner by the king, is sent down with the army which invaded the British Protectorate, escapes, and accompanies the English expedition on their march to Coomassie.

"Mr. Henty keeps up his reputation as a writer of boys' stories. 'By Sheer Pluck' will be eagerly read."—Athenaeum.

"The book is one which will not only sustain, but add to Mr. Henty's reputation."—The Standard.

"Written with a simple directness, force, and purity of style worthy of Defoe. Morally, the book is everything that could be desired, setting before the boys a bright and bracing ideal of the English gentleman."—Christian Leader.

BY G. A. HENTY.

"Mr. Henty's books are always welcome visitors in the home circle."—Daily News.

FACING DEATH:

Or the Hero of the Vaughan Pit. A Tale of the Coal Mines. By G. A. HENTY. With 8 full-page Illustrations by GORDON BROWNE, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth, elegant, 5s.

"Facing Death" is a story with a purpose. It is intended to show that a lad who makes up his mind firmly and resolutely that he will rise in life, and who is prepared to face toil and ridicule and hardship to carry out his determination, is sure to succeed. The hero of the story is a typical British boy, dogged, earnest, generous, and though "shamefaced" to a degree, is ready to face death in the discharge of duty. His is a character for imitation by boys in every station.

"The tale is well written and well illustrated, and there is much reality in the characters."—Athenaeum.

"If any father, godfather, clergyman, or schoolmaster is on the look-out for a good book to give as a present to a boy who is worth his salt, this is the book we would recommend."—Standard.

YARNS ON THE BEACH.

By G. A. HENTY. With 2 full-page Illustrations. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 1s. 6d.

"This little book should find special favour among boys. The yarns are spun by old sailors, and while full of romance and adventure, are admirably calculated to foster a manly spirit."—The Echo.

* * * * *

BY GEORGE MANVILLE FENN.

IN THE KING'S NAME:

Or the Cruise of the Kestrel. By G. MANVILLE FENN. Illustrated by 12 full-page Pictures by GORDON BROWNE, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, olivine edges, 6s.

"In the King's Name" is a spirited story of the Jacobite times, concerning the adventures of Hilary Leigh, a young naval officer in the preventive service off the coast of Sussex, on board the Kestrel. Leigh is taken prisoner by the adherents of the Pretender, amongst whom is an early friend and patron who desires to spare the lad's life, but will not release him. The narrative is full of exciting and often humorous incident.

"Mr. Fenn has won a foremost place among writers for boys. 'In the King's Name' is, we think, the best of all his productions in this field."—Daily News.

"Told with the freshness and verve which characterize all Mr. Fenn's writings and put him in the front rank of writers for boys."—Standard.

BY GEORGE MANVILLE FENN.

"Mr. Manville Fenn may be regarded as the successor in boyhood's affections of Captain Mayne Reid."—Academy.

DEVON BOYS:

A Tale of the North Shore. By GEORGE MANVILLE FENN. With 12 full-page Illustrations by GORDON BROWNE. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, olivine edges, 6s.

The adventures of Sep Duncan and his school friends take place in the early part of the Georgian era, during the wars between England and France. The scene is laid on the picturesque rocky coast of North Devon, where the three lads pass through many perils both afloat and ashore. Fishermen, smugglers, naval officers, and a stern old country surgeon play their parts in the story, which is one of honest adventure with the mastering of difficulties in a wholesome manly way, mingled with sufficient excitement to satisfy the most exacting reader. The discovery of the British silver mine and its working up and defence take up a large portion of the story.

BROWNSMITH'S BOY.

By GEORGE MANVILLE FENN. With 12 full-page Illustrations by GORDON BROWNE, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, olivine edges, 6s.

The career of "Brownsmith's Boy" embraces the home adventures of an orphan, who, having formed the acquaintance of an eccentric old gardener, accepts his offer of a home and finds that there is plenty of romance in a garden, and much excitement even in a journey now and then to town. In a half-savage lad he finds a friend who shows his love and fidelity principally by pretending to be an enemy. In "Brownsmith's Boy" there is abundance of excitement and trouble within four walls.

"'Brownsmith's Boy' excels all the numerous 'juvenile' books that the present season has yet produced."—Academy.

"Mr. Fenn's books are among the best, if not altogether the best, of the stories for boys. Mr. Fenn is at his best in 'Brownsmith's Boy.' The story is a thoroughly manly and healthy one."—Pictorial World.

"'Brownsmith's Boy' must rank among the few undeniably good boys' books. He will be a very dull boy indeed who lays it down without wishing that it had gone on for at least 100 pages more."—North British Mail.

"Is every way a charming book for young people. The author has much of the inventiveness of the well-known French writer Jules Verne; indeed, he is in the front rank of writers of stories for boys. Parents especially ought to be very thankful to him for providing their sons with so much wholesome and fascinating amusement in the way of literature."—Liverpool Mercury.

BY GEORGE MANVILLE FENN.

"There is a freshness, a buoyancy, a heartiness about Mr. Fenn's writings."—Standard.

THE GOLDEN MAGNET:

A Tale of the Land of the Incas. By G. MANVILLE FENN. With 12 full-page Pictures by GORDON BROWNE, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, olivine edges, 6s.

The tale is of a romantic lad, who leaves home to seek his fortune in South America by endeavouring to discover some of that treasure which legends declare was ages ago hidden to preserve it from the Spanish invaders. He is accompanied by a faithful companion, who, in the capacity both of comrade and henchman, does true service, and shows the dogged courage of the English lad during the strange adventures which befall them.

"Told with admirable force and strength. Few men other than Mr. Fenn have the capacity for telling such stories as this."—Scotsman.

"There could be no more welcome present for a boy. There is not a dull page, and many will be read with breathless interest."—Journal of Education.

BUNYIP LAND:

The Story of a Wild Journey in New Guinea. By G. MANVILLE FENN. With 12 full-page Illustrations by GORDON BROWNE. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, olivine edges, 6s.

"Bunyip Land" is the story of an eminent botanist, who ventures into the interior of New Guinea in his search for new plants. Years pass away, and he does not return; and though supposed to be dead, his young wife and son refuse to believe it; and as soon as he is old enough young Joe goes in search of his father, accompanied by Jimmy, a native black. Their adventures are many and exciting, but after numerous perils they discover the lost one, a prisoner among the blacks, and bring him home in triumph.

"Mr. Fenn deserves the thanks of everybody for 'Bunyip Land' and 'Menhardoc,' and we may venture to promise that a quiet week may be reckoned on whilst the youngsters have such fascinating literature provided for their evenings' amusement."—Spectator.

"One of the best tales of adventure produced by any living writer, combining the inventiveness of Jules Verne, and the solidity of character and earnestness of spirit which have made the English victorious in so many fields of labour and research."—Daily Chronicle.

A TERRIBLE COWARD.

By G. MANVILLE FENN. With 2 full-page Illustrations in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 1s. 6d.

The tale of a lad who never bounced, bragged, or bullied. When the testing time came, however, the "coward" was found to be the one who distanced all by his cool unflinching English courage.

"Just such a tale as boys will delight to read, and as they are certain to profit by."—Aberdeen Journal.

BY GEORGE MANVILLE FENN.

"Mr. Fenn is in the front rank of writers of stories for boys."—Liverpool Mercury.

YUSSUF THE GUIDE:

Being the Strange Story of the Travels in Asia Minor of Burne the Lawyer, Preston the Professor, and Lawrence the Sick. By G. MANVILLE FENN. With 8 full-page Illustrations by JOHN SCHOENBERG. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 5s.

Deals with the stirring incidents in the career of Lawrence Grange, a lad who has been almost given over by the doctors, but who rapidly recovers health and strength in a journey through Asia Minor with his guardians "The Professor" and "The Lawyer." Yussuf is their guide; and in their journeyings through the wild mountain region in search of the ancient cities of the Greeks and Romans they penetrate where law is disregarded, and finally fall into the hands of brigands. Their adventures in this rarely-traversed romantic region are many, and culminate in the travellers being snowed up for the winter in the mountains, from which they escape while their captors are waiting for the ransom that does not come.

MENHARDOC:

A Story of Cornish Nets and Mines. By G. MANVILLE FENN. With 8 full-page Illustrations by C. J. STANILAND, R.I., in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth, elegant, 5s.

The scene of this story of boyish aspiration and adventure is laid among the granite piles and tors of Cornwall. Here amongst the hardy, honest fishermen and miners the two London boys are inducted into the secrets of fishing in the great bay, they learn how to catch mackerel, pollack, and conger with the line, and are present at the hauling of the nets, although not without incurring many serious risks. Adventures are pretty plentiful, but the story has for its strong base the development of character of the three boys. There is a good deal of quaint character throughout, and the sketches of Cornish life and local colouring are based upon experience in the bay, whose fishing village is called here Menhardoc. This is a thoroughly English story of phases of life but little touched upon in boys' literature up to the present time.

"They are real living boys, with the virtues and faults which characterize the transition stage between boyhood and manhood. The Cornish fishermen are drawn from life, they are racy of the soil, salt with the sea-water, and they stand out from the pages in their jerseys and sea-boots all sprinkled with silvery pilchard scales."—Spectator.

"Mr. Fenn has written many books in his time; he has not often written one which for genuine merit as a story for young people will exceed this."—Scotsman.

BY GEORGE MANVILLE FENN.

"No one can find his way to the hearts of lads more readily than Mr. Fenn."—Nottingham Guardian.

PATIENCE WINS:

Or, War in the Works. By G. MANVILLE FENN. With 8 full-page Illustrations by GORDON BROWNE, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 5s.

This is a graphic narrative of factory life in the Black Country. The hero, Cob, and his three uncles, engineers, machinists, and inventors, go down to Arrowfield to set up "a works." They find, however, that the workmen, through prejudice and ignorance, are determined to have no new-fangled machinery. After a series of narrow escapes and stirring encounters, the workmen by degrees find that no malice is borne against them, and at last admiration takes the place of hatred. A great business is built up, and its foundation is laid on the good-will of the men.

"An excellent story, the interest being sustained from first to last. This is, both in its intention and the way the story is told, one of the best books of its kind which has come before us this year."—Saturday Review.

"Mr. Fenn is at his best in 'Patience Wins.' It is sure to prove acceptable to youthful readers, and will give a good idea of that which was the real state of one of our largest manufacturing towns not many years ago."—Guardian.

"Mr. Fenn has written many a book for boys, but never has he hit upon a happier plan than in writing this story of Yorkshire factory life. The whole book, from page 1 to 352, is all aglow with life, the scenes varying continually with kaleidoscopic rapidity."—Pall Mall Gazette.

NAT THE NATURALIST:

A Boy's Adventures in the Eastern Seas. By G. MANVILLE FENN. Illustrated by 8 full-page Pictures by GORDON BROWNE, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 5s.

This is a pleasant story of a lad who has a great desire to go abroad to seek specimens in natural history, and has that desire gratified. The boy Nat and his uncle Dick go on a voyage to the remoter islands of the Eastern seas, and their adventures there are told in a truthful and vastly interesting fashion, which will at once attract and maintain the earnest attention of young readers. The descriptions of Mr. Ebony, their black comrade, and of the scenes of savage life, are full of genuine humour.

"Mr. Manville Fenn has here hit upon a capital idea.... This is among the best of the boys' books of the season."—The Times.

"This sort of book encourages independence of character, develops resource, and teaches a boy to keep his eyes open."—Saturday Review.

"We can conceive of no more attractive present for a young naturalist."—Land and Water.

"The late Lord Palmerston used to say that one use of war was to teach geography; such books as this teach it in a more harmless and cheaper way."—Athenaeum.

BY HARRY COLLINGWOOD.

"Mr. G. A. Henty has found a formidable rival in Mr. Collingwood."—Academy.

THE LOG OF THE "FLYING FISH:"

A Story of Aerial and Submarine Peril and Adventure. By HARRY COLLINGWOOD. With 12 full-page Illustrations by GORDON BROWNE. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, olivine edges, 6s.

In this story the aim of the author has been, not only to interest and amuse, but also to stimulate a taste for scientific study. He has utilized natural science as a peg whereon to hang the web of a narrative of absorbing interest, interweaving therewith sundry very striking scientific facts in such a manner as to provoke a desire for further information.

Professor Von Schalckenberg constructs a gigantic and wonderful ship, appropriately named the Flying Fish, which is capable of navigating not only the higher reaches of the atmosphere, but also the extremest depths of ocean; and in her the four adventurers make a voyage to the North Pole, and to a hitherto unexplored portion of Central Africa.

In common with all this author's stories, "The Log of the Flying Fish" is thoroughly healthy and unexceptionable in tone, and may be unhesitatingly placed in the hands of "our boys," who will enjoy in its perusal a literary treat entirely after their own hearts.

THE CONGO ROVERS:

A Tale of the Slave Squadron. By HARRY COLLINGWOOD. With 8 full-page Illustrations by J. SCHOENBERG, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 5s.

The scene of this tale is laid on the west coast of Africa, and in the lower reaches of the Congo; the characteristic scenery of the great river being delineated with wonderful accuracy and completeness of detail. The hero of the story—a midshipman on board one of the ships of the slave squadron—after being effectually laughed out of his boyish vanity, develops into a lad possessed of a large share of sound common sense, the exercise of which enables him to render much valuable service to his superior officers in unmasking a most daring and successful ruse on the part of the slavers.

"Mr. Collingwood carries us off for another cruise at sea, in 'The Congo Rovers,' and boys will need no pressing to join the daring crew, which seeks adventures and meets with any number of them in the forests and pestilential fogs of the Congo."—The Times.

"We can heartily recommend it as one that boys will be sure to read throughout with pleasure, and with advantage, also, to their morals and their imaginations."—Academy.

"No better sea story has lately been written than the Congo Rovers. It is as original as any boy could desire."—Morning Post.

BY HARRY COLLINGWOOD.

"Mr. Collingwood has established his reputation as a first-rate writer of sea-stories."—Scotsman.

THE PIRATE ISLAND:

A Story of the South Pacific. By HARRY COLLINGWOOD. Illustrated by 8 full-page Pictures by C. J. STANILAND and J. R. WELLS, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 5s.

This story details the adventures of a lad who was found in his infancy on board a wreck, and is adopted by a fisherman. By a deed of true gallantry his whole destiny is changed, and, going to sea, he forms one of a party who, after being burned out of their ship in the South Pacific, and experiencing great hardship and suffering in their boats, are picked up by a pirate brig and taken to the "Pirate Island." After many thrilling adventures, they ultimately succeed in effecting their escape. The story depicts both the Christian and the manly virtues in such colours as will cause them to be admired—and therefore imitated.

"A capital story of the sea; indeed in our opinion the author is superior in some respects as a marine novelist to the better known Mr. Clarke Russell."—The Times.

"The best of these books.... The events are described with minuteness and care. The result is a very amusing book."—Saturday Review.

"Told in the most vivid and graphic language. It would be difficult to find a more thoroughly delightful gift-book."—The Guardian.

"One of the very best books for boys that we have seen for a long time: its author is thoroughly at home in maritime matters, and stands far in advance of any other writer for boys as a teller of stories of the sea."—The Standard.

"There is enough to make any boy dream of all that is strange and wild. But bravery and gentleness and helpfulness are shown in all their beauty; and so we should like as many boys as possible to read the story and admire the daring deeds."—Christian Leader.

BY DOUGLAS FRAZAR.

PERSEVERANCE ISLAND:

Or the Robinson Crusoe of the 19th Century. By DOUGLAS FRAZAR. With 12 full-page Illustrations. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 5s.

This story shows the limitless ingenuity and invention of man, and portrays the works and achievements of a castaway, who, thrown ashore almost literally naked upon a desert isle, is able, by the use of his brains, the skill of his hands, and a practical knowledge of the common arts and sciences, to far surpass the achievements of all his predecessors, and to surround himself with implements of power utterly beyond the reach of the original Robinson Crusoe.

"One of the best issues, if not absolutely the best, of Defoe's work which has ever appeared."—The Standard.

THE LIFE AND SURPRISING ADVENTURES OF ROBINSON CRUSOE.

BY DANIEL DEFOE.

Beautifully Printed, and Illustrated by above 100 Pictures Designed by Gordon Browne. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, olivine edges, 6s.



There have been countless editions of Robinson Crusoe, and they have mostly been imperfect, inasmuch as they have been so largely altered from the original text that the language in many instances has not been that of Defoe but of his revisers. The present volume has been carefully printed from the original edition, and all obsolete or little-known terms and obscure phrases are explained in brief foot-notes. The "Editing" is not a corruption or pretended improvement of Defoe's great work.

"Of the many editions of Defoe's immortal story that have passed through our hands in recent years, we are inclined to rank this the most desirable as a present for a good boy."—The Academy.

GULLIVER'S TRAVELS.

A NEW EDITION, beautifully printed, and illustrated by more than 100 Pictures from designs by GORDON BROWNE. In crown 8vo, cloth elegant, olivine edges, 5s.



The wonderful travels of Gulliver "into several remote regions of the world" are still as fresh and entertaining as when they were first presented to the public more than a hundred and fifty years ago. In this edition the text has been judiciously curtailed by the omission of several passages quite unsuited for the perusal of the young or for family reading; and foot-notes to the text have been added to explain and throw light on those allusions, references, &c., which a young reader would not understand.

"Mr. Gordon Browne is, to my thinking, incomparably the most artistic, spirited, and brilliant of our illustrators of books for boys, and one of the most humorous also, as his illustrations of 'Gulliver' amply testify."—Truth.

"By help of the admirable illustrations, and a little judicious skipping, it has enchanted a family party of ages varying from six to sixty. Which of the other Christmas books could stand this test?"—Journal of Education.

BY ASCOTT R. HOPE.

STORIES OF OLD RENOWN:

Tales of Knights and Heroes. By ASCOTT R. HOPE. With nearly 100 Illustrations by GORDON BROWNE. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, olivine edges, 5s.

A Series of the best of the Stories of Noble Knighthood and Old Romance, told in refined and simple language, and adapted to young readers. A book possessing remarkable attractions for boys.

"The stories are admirably chosen. It is a book to be coveted by all young readers."—Scotsman.

"One of the best, if not the best, boys' book of the season."—Truth.

THE WIGWAM AND THE WAR-PATH:

Stories of the Red Indians. By ASCOTT R. HOPE. With 8 full-page Pictures by GORDON BROWNE, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 5s.

"The Wigwam and the War-path" consists of stories of Red Indians which are none the less romantic for being true. They are taken from the actual records of those who have been made prisoners by the red men or have lived among them, joining in their expeditions and taking part in their semi-savage but often picturesque and adventurous life.

"Mr. Hope's volume is notably good: it gives a very vivid picture of life among the Indians."—Spectator.

"All the stories are told well, in simple spirited language and with a fulness of detail that makes them instructive as well as interesting."—Journal of Education.

BY J. PERCY GROVES.

REEFER AND RIFLEMAN:

A Tale of the Two Services. By J. PERCY GROVES, late 27th Inniskillings, author of "From Cadet to Captain," &c. With 6 full-page Illustrations by JOHN SCHOENBERG. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 3s. 6d.

A tale of the naval and military services in the early part of the present century. The hero enters the Royal Navy just after the rupture of the Peace of Amiens. After a short but eventful career afloat, he returns home, and subsequently joins the sister service, being appointed to a second lieutenancy in the old 95th Rifles. The ex-"reefer" takes an active part in the opening scenes of the Peninsular War, and meets with varied adventures in Portugal and Spain. After the battle of Coruna he once more returns to England. The story has an historical interest as well as a plot of exciting adventure, and a spice of humour which will commend it to the attention of lads who admire the stories of Captain Marryat.

BY JOHN C. HUTCHESON.

"Mr. Hutcheson bids fair to take a prominent place among our best writers of boys' books."—The Academy.

THE WHITE SQUALL:

A Story of the Sargasso Sea. By JOHN C. HUTCHESON. With 6 full-page Illustrations by JOHN SCHOENBERG. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 3s. 6d.

Commencing amid the fairy-like scenes and surroundings of a West Indian home, this story passes to Tom Eastman's setting sail from the Windward Islands on a voyage to England. At first the good ship Josephine glides buoyantly through the balmy waters of the Caribbean Sea, but getting out into the broad Atlantic, calm and whirlwind are succeeded by a gale which drives her to the confines of the Sargasso Sea, that meadow-like portion of the ocean, between the Azores and Bermuda, which is constantly covered with the fibrous tentacles of the gulf-weed. Here a sudden and unexpected "white squall" assails her—the Josephine is turned over on her beam-ends, and the captain and crew climb up on the ship's keel for shelter. How they extricate themselves from this terrible predicament, and how the Josephine is righted and pursues her voyage safely to the English Channel, the reader will discover in the book.

THE WRECK OF THE NANCY BELL:

Or, Cast Away on Kerguelen Land. By JOHN C. HUTCHESON. Illustrated by 6 full-page Pictures by FRANK FELLER, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 3s. 6d.

This is a book after a boy's own heart. The story narrates the eventful voyage of a vessel from the port of London to New Zealand, and the haps and mishaps that befell her, culminating in the wreck of the Nancy Bell on Kerguelen Land. There is no lack of incident. From the opening chapter, with the cowardly steward's alarm of "a ghost in the cabin," to the end of the story, which details the rescue of the shipwrecked passengers, one engrossing narrative holds the attention of the reader.

"A full circumstantial narrative such as boys delight in. The ship so sadly destined to wreck on Kerguelen Land is manned by a very life-like party, passengers and crew. The life in the Antarctic Iceland is well treated."—Athenaeum.

TOM FINCH'S MONKEY

And other Yarns. By JOHN C. HUTCHESON. With 2 full-page Illustrations in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 1s. 6d.

"Short stories of an altogether unexceptionable character, with adventure sufficient for a dozen books of its size."—United Service Gazette.

BY JOHN C. HUTCHESON.

"Mr. Hutcheson is master of a capital style for boy readers."—Scotsman.

PICKED UP AT SEA:

Or the Gold Miners of Minturne Creek; and other Stories. By JOHN C. HUTCHESON. With 6 full-page Pictures in tints. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 3s. 6d.

The story of a young English lad, rescued in mid Atlantic from a watery grave, and taken out west by a party of gold-diggers to the wild regions of the Black Hills in Dakota. Here, after warring with the elements during months of unceasing toil in their search for the riches of the earth, and having the result of their indefatigable labour well-nigh torn from their grasp when on the verge of victory, success at last rewards the efforts of the adventurous band.

"A capital book; full of startling incident, clever dialogue, admirable descriptions of sky and water in all their aspects, and plenty of fun."—Sheffield Independent.

"This is the first appearance of the author as a writer of books for boys, and the success is so marked that it may well encourage him to further efforts. The description of mining life in the Far-west is true and accurate."—Standard.

TEDDY:

The Story of a "Little Pickle." By JOHN C. HUTCHESON. With 3 full-page Illustrations. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 2s.

This is the story of a little fellow, who, while brave and fearless, is always in mischief, and a torment to everyone connected with him, by reason of his natural exuberance of animal spirits. As Teddy cannot manage to steer clear of hot water on shore he is sent to sea, in the hope that discipline and duty will tame down the rough points of his character, and teach him to be a noble and good man. Although a "little pickle" at the beginning of his career, Teddy turns out a little hero at the close of the story, as the reader will find out if the wonderful adventures of the "young torment" be followed to the end.

THE PENANG PIRATE,

And THE LOST PINNACE. By JOHN C. HUTCHESON. With 3 full-page Illustrations. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 2s.

Deals with the pirates who infest the great water-highways of the East, and tells how a party of Malayan freebooters were caught in their own toils and how the gallant ship Hankow Lin voyaged from the Canton river through the straits of Sunda. Both stories are founded on fact.

"A book which most boys will thoroughly enjoy. It is rattling, adventurous, and romantic, and the stories are thoroughly healthy in tone, and written by a skilful hand."—Aberdeen Journal.

BY MRS. R. H. READ.

SILVER MILL:

A Tale of the Don Valley. By Mrs. R. H. READ. With 6 full-page Illustrations by JOHN SCHOENBERG, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 3s. 6d.

The story of a girl and boy. The chief interest centres around Ruth, who is supposed to be the orphan child of a working-man, but who eventually turns out to be the daughter of the cynical, though essentially kind-hearted, owner of Silver Mill. In tracing the character of Ruth as she develops from an impulsive girl to noble womanhood, the author has drawn a picture at once pleasing and suggestive.

"Another of those pleasant stories which are always acceptable, especially perhaps to girls standing on the debatable ground between girlhood and young ladyhood."—The Guardian.

"A good girl's story-book. The plot is interesting, and the heroine, Ruth, a lady by birth, though brought up in a humble station, well deserves the more elevated position in which the end of the book leaves her. The pictures are very spirited."—Saturday Review.

DORA:

Or a Girl without a Home. By Mrs. R. H. READ. With 6 full-page Illustrations. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 3s. 6d.

The story of a friendless orphan girl, who is placed as pupil-teacher at the school in which she was educated, but is suddenly removed by hard and selfish relatives, who employ her as a menial as well as a governess. Through a series of exciting adventures she makes discoveries respecting a large property which is restored to its rightful owners, and at the same time she secures her escape from her persecutors.

"It is no slight thing, in an age of rubbish, to get a story so pure and healthy."—The Academy.

"One of the most pleasing stories for young people that we have met with of late years. There is in it a freshness, simplicity, and naturalness very engaging."—Harper's Magazine.

FAIRY FANCY:

What she Heard and what she Saw. By Mrs. R. H. READ. With many Woodcut Illustrations in the text, and a Frontispiece printed in colours. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 2s.

The tale is designed to show the influence of character even among little children, and the narrative is such as to awaken and sustain the interest of the younger readers.

"The authoress has very great insight into child nature."—Glasgow Herald.

"All is pleasant, nice reading, with a little knowledge of natural history and other matters gently introduced and divested of dryness."—Practical Teacher.

OUR DOLLY:

Her Words and Ways. By Mrs. R. H. READ. With many Woodcuts, and a Frontispiece in colours. Cr. 8vo, cloth extra, 2s.

A story showing the growth and development of character in a little girl; with a series of entertaining small adventures suitable for very juvenile readers.

"Prettily told and prettily illustrated."—Guardian.

"Sure to be a great favourite with young children."—School Guardian.

BY ALICE BANKS.

CHEEP AND CHATTER:

Or, LESSONS FROM FIELD AND TREE. By ALICE BANKS. With 54 Character Illustrations by GORDON BROWNE. Small 4to, cloth, handsome design on cover, 3s. 6d.; gilt edges, 4s.



About a dozen highly dramatic sketches or little stories, the actors in which are birds, beasts, and insects. They are instructive, suited to the capacities of young people, and very amusing.

"The real charm of the volume lies in the illustrations. Every one is a success. With birds and mice and insects the artist is equally at home; but his birds above all are inimitable."—Academy.

"The author has done her work extremely well, and has conveyed very many admirable lessons to young people. The illustrations are capital—full of fun and genuine humour."—Scotsman.

BY LEWIS HOUGH.

DR. JOLLIFFE'S BOYS:

A Tale of Weston School. By LEWIS HOUGH. With 6 full-page Pictures in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 3s. 6d.

A story of school life which will be read with genuine interest, especially as it exposes some of the dangers which may beset lads who are ill instructed at home or have been thrown among unscrupulous companions. The descriptions of the characters of the boys are vivid and truthful. The narrative throughout is bright, easy, and lighted by touches of humour.

"Young people who appreciate 'Tom Brown's School-days' will find this story a worthy companion to that fascinating book. There is the same manliness of tone, truthfulness of outline, avoidance of exaggeration and caricature, and healthy morality as characterized the masterpiece of Mr. Hughes."—Newcastle Journal.

BY MRS. EMMA RAYMOND PITMAN.

"Mrs. Pitman's works are all to be prized for their ennobling character—pure, elevating, interesting, and intellectual."—Christian Union.

GARNERED SHEAVES.

A Tale for Boys. By Mrs. E. R. PITMAN. With 4 full-page Illustrations in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 3s. 6d.

"This book is of unusual merit. It breathes out good thoughts in earnest and true tones that speak to the heart."—Schoolmistress.

LIFE'S DAILY MINISTRY.

A Story of Everyday Service for Others. By Mrs. PITMAN. With 4 full-page Illustrations. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 3s. 6d.

"Full of stirring interest, genuine pictures of real life, and pervaded by a broad and active sympathy for the true and good."—Christian Commonwealth.

FLORENCE GODFREY'S FAITH.

A Story of Australian Life. By Mrs. E. R. PITMAN. With 4 full-page Illustrations. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 3s. 6d.

"This is a clever, and what is better still, a good book, written with a freshness and power which win the reader's sympathies."—Christian Globe.

MY GOVERNESS LIFE:

Or Earning my Living. By Mrs. E. R. PITMAN. With 4 full-page Illustrations in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 3s. 6d.

"Told in the author's usual winsome style, which holds the reader spell-bound from first to last."—Christian Union.

BY HENRY FRITH.

THE SEARCH FOR THE TALISMAN:

A Story of Labrador. By HENRY FRITH. With 6 full-page Illustrations by JOHN SCHOENBERG, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 3s. 6d.

A stirring tale of adventure. Four youths and two elder relatives proceed in search of a "talisman" left by the father of two of the young explorers when an officer in the Hudson's Bay Company's service. On an exploring expedition they are separated, and various adventures result until they unite again and land amongst the Esquimaux. After suffering many vicissitudes they succeed in recovering the talisman.

"A genial and rollicking tale. It is a regular boys' book, and a very cheery and wholesome one."—Spectator.

"Is everything that a boy's book should be—healthy in teaching, instructive, yet never dull. Mr. Frith is a thorough master of boy nature."—Glasgow Herald.

JACK O' LANTHORN:

A Tale of Adventure. By HENRY FRITH. With 4 full-page Illustrations in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 2s. 6d.

A story of the days when George the Third was king. The hero gets into certain scrapes, and at the sea-coast makes the acquaintance of Jack o' Lanthorn. Drifting out to sea in an open boat they discover in a singular manner the approach of the Spanish fleet, and Jack accompanies the hero of the tale to report what they have seen. Seized by a press-gang they are taken off to sea, and eventually take part in the defence of Gibraltar.

"'Jack o' Lanthorn' will hold its own with the best works of Mr. Henty and Mr. Fenn."—Morning Advertiser.

"The narrative is crushed full of stirring incident, and is sure to be a prime favourite with boys."—Christian Leader.

BY F. BAYFORD HARRISON.

BROTHERS IN ARMS:

A Story of the Crusades. By F. BAYFORD HARRISON. With 4 Illustrations by GORDON BROWNE. Cr. 8vo, cloth extra, 2s. 6d.

A story which, while it provides exciting incidents and vivid descriptions, will be of real value to the young reader because of its containing accurate historical information on the subject of the Crusades and the doings of Richard the Lion-heart and his army in the Holy Land.

"Full of striking incident, is very fairly illustrated, and may safely be chosen as sure to prove interesting to young people of both sexes."—Guardian.

"One of the best accounts of the Crusades it has been our privilege to read. The book cannot fail to interest boys."—Schoolmistress.

BY MARY C. ROWSELL.

TRAITOR OR PATRIOT?

A Tale of the Rye-House Plot. By MARY C. ROWSELL. With 6 full-page Pictures by C. O. MURRAY and C. J. STANILAND, R.I. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 3s. 6d.

A romantic tale of the later days of Charles II. The main theme of the story is the conspiracy for the assassination of the king and the Duke of York, which was to be effected on their return from Newmarket. The hero of the story, Lawrence Lee, a young farmer, accidentally learns the truth, and starts on horseback for Newmarket to warn the king. After a series of adventures, the young man succeeds in his loyal enterprise, and duly receives his reward for his conspicuous share in the frustration of the "Rye-House Plot."

"A romantic love episode, whose true characters are life-like beings, not dry sticks as in many historical tales."—Graphic.

"The character of the heroine, Ruth, is singularly pretty and attractive: we thank the author for so charming a creation."—Bristol Mercury.

THE PEDLAR AND HIS DOG.

By MARY C. ROWSELL. With 2 Illustrations by GEORGE CRUIKSHANK, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 1s. 6d.

A story of English life in the time of Good Queen Bess. Accompanying John Pennycuick and his dog Shock in their wanderings, we get a pleasant view of rural England, quiet and peaceful then, as it is now, and of London with its quaint old streets and houses.

"The opening chapter, with its description of Necton Fair, will forcibly remind many readers of George Eliot. The style is clear and attractive, and taken altogether it is a delightful story."—Western Morning News.

BY ELIZABETH J. LYSAGHT.

BROTHER AND SISTER:

Or the Trials of the Moore Family. By ELIZABETH J. LYSAGHT. With 6 full-page Illustrations. Cr. 8vo, cloth extra, 3s. 6d.

An interesting story for young people, showing by the narrative of the vicissitudes and struggles of a family which has "come down in the world," and of the brave endeavours of its two younger members, how the pressure of adversity is mitigated by domestic affection, mutual confidence, and hopeful honest effort.

"A pretty story, and well told. The plot is cleverly constructed, and the moral is excellent."—Athenaeum.

"'Brother and Sister' is a charming story, admirably adapted for young people."—Society.

BY E. S. BROOKS.

HISTORIC BOYS:

Their Endeavours, their Achievements, and their Times. By E. S. BROOKS. With 12 full-page Illustrations by R. B. BIRCH and JOHN SCHOENBERG. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 3s. 6d.

The careers of a dozen young fellows of different lands and epochs, such as show that, from the earliest ages, manliness and self-reliance have ever been the chief groundwork of character.

"We may safely predict that this book will be voraciously read by every boy into whose hands it may come: and no boy will read it without being thereby better fitted to fight the battle of life."—Literary World.

BY JANE ANDREWS.

TEN BOYS

Who lived on the Road from Long Ago till Now. By JANE ANDREWS. With 20 Illustrations. Cr. 8vo, cloth extra, 2s. 6d.

Introduces the stories of Kablu the Aryan Boy, Darius the Persian Boy, Cleon the Greek Boy, Horatius the Roman Boy, Wulf the Saxon Boy, Gilbert the Page, Roger the English Lad, Ezekiel Fuller the Puritan Boy, Jonathan Dawson the Yankee Boy, Frank Wilson the Boy of 1885, and gives much entertaining and instructive reading on the manners and customs of the different nations from Aryan age to now.

BY EVELYN EVERETT GREEN.

THE EVERSLEY SECRETS.

By EVELYN EVERETT GREEN. With 4 full-page Illustrations by J. J. PROCTOR. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 2s. 6d.

This is a story of family life, and deals with the effects of the influence of one member of the family upon another. The story is told in the easy but deeply engaging style for which the author has attained a high reputation.

BY R. STEAD.

THE LADS OF LITTLE CLAYTON:

Stories of Village Boy Life. By R. STEAD. With 4 full-page Illustrations. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 2s. 6d.

These stories show that humble country boys are often as well worth writing about as the young gentlemen of the public school or academy. The stories will be found interesting and even exciting, and most of them have the advantage of being founded on fact. A healthy moral tone pervades the tales.

FAMOUS DISCOVERIES BY SEA AND LAND.

With 4 full-page Illustrations by A. MONRO SMITH, in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 2s. 6d.

Narratives of the stirring times when the great achievement of Columbus had shown that beyond the Atlantic there were new worlds and oceans to discover and explore—stories of bold adventure and heroic effort which, while strictly historical, are invested with all the charm of romance.

"Either of these volumes will be a gift beyond price for studious lads."—Norwich Mercury.

"Such a volume may providentially stir up some youths by the divine fire kindled by these 'great of old' to lay open other lands, and show their vast resources."—Perthshire Advertiser.

STIRRING EVENTS OF HISTORY.

With 4 full-page Illustrations by JOHN SCHOENBERG. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 2s. 6d.

The incidents in this volume have been drawn from times and countries wide apart, the aim having been to present the young reader with a series of historical pictures instructive in themselves, and thus to induce a taste for further reading in the same direction.

"The volume will fairly hold its place among those which make the smaller ways of history pleasant and attractive. It may safely be selected as a gift-book, in which the interest will not be exhausted with one reading."—Guardian.

STORIES OF THE SEA IN FORMER DAYS:

Narratives of Wreck and Rescue. With 4 full-page Illustrations by FRANK FELLER. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 2s. 6d.

While no attempt is made in "Stories of the Sea" to paint the sailor's life in glowing colours, or invest it with a glamour of romance, the narratives selected are full of such thrilling incidents of peril, suffering, and shipwreck, as are always deeply interesting to the young reader.

"Next to an original sea-tale of sustained interest come well-sketched collections of maritime peril and suffering which awaken the sympathies by the realism of fact. 'Stories of the Sea,' are a very good specimen of the kind."—The Times.

ADVENTURES IN FIELD, FLOOD, & FOREST:

Stories of Danger and Daring. With 4 full-page Illustrations by FRANK FELLER. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 2s. 6d.

These narratives of real personal experience in "Field, Flood, and Forest," while in no sense fictitious, will be found quite as exciting and more truly interesting than the most cunningly devised fables.

"The editor has beyond all question succeeded admirably.... It cannot fail to be read with interest and advantage."—Academy.

"All admirably told. It will be counted one of the best of the story-books that Christmas produces."—Scotsman.

TALES OF CAPTIVITY AND EXILE.

With 4 full-page Illustrations by W. B. FORTESCUE. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 2s. 6d.

A volume of stories of men and women in many lands, who in prison or in exile have suffered for their conscientious convictions, or have been the victims of irresponsible tyranny. The walls of many a dungeon in ancient as well as modern times could tell of heroic endurance of wrong, and of marvellous patience and ingenuity in devising means of lightening the horrors of the prison or effecting deliverance from it. In this volume will be found authentic records of many of these more notable life-stories.

THE JOYOUS STORY OF TOTO.

By LAURA E. RICHARDS. With 30 humorous and fanciful Illustrations by E. H. GARRETT. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 2s. 6d.



Toto is a little boy who finds his friends among the birds and the animals, who tell him many wonderful stories in a bright, quaint, humorous fashion. The fun is genuine and cheerful, and the illustrations give a delightful personality to the characters.

"A very delightful book for children, which deserves to find a place in every nursery."—Lady's Pictorial.

"An excellent book for children, which should take its place beside Lewis Carroll's unique works."—Birmingham Gaz.

BY EMMA LESLIE.

GYTHA'S MESSAGE:

A Tale of Saxon England. By EMMA LESLIE, author of "Glaucia the Greek Slave," &c. With 4 full-page Pictures by C. J. STANILAND, R.I. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 2s. 6d.

This is a story of the time of "Harold, the last of the Saxon Kings." Though mainly a domestic title, we yet get a glimpse of the stirring events taking place in the country at that period. A good deal is learned of Saxon manners and customs, and both boys and girls will delight to read of the home life of Hilda and Gytha, and of the brave deeds of the impulsive Gurth and the faithful Leofric.

"This is a charmingly told story. It is the sort of book that all girls and some boys like, and can only get good from."—Journal of Education.

"The book is throughout most interesting, and shows in a very natural manner the rough habits and usages in Saxon England."—Schoolmistress.

BY M. A. PAULL.

MY MISTRESS THE QUEEN:

By Miss M. A. PAULL. With 4 full-page Illustrations by C. T. GARLAND. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 2s. 6d.

"My Mistress the Queen" is Mary, daughter of James II., into whose service the narrator, a girl of 16, enters just before the marriage of Mary to William III. The descriptions of persons and manners at the courts of Charles II. and William III. are life-like and accurate. The language is simple, and imitative of the quaint quiet style of that period.

"The style is pure and graceful, the presentation of manners and character has been well studied, and the story is full of interest."—Scotsman.

"This is a charming book. The old-time sentiment which pervades the volume renders it all the more alluring."—Western Mercury.

BY DARLEY DALE.

THE FAMILY FAILING.

By DARLEY DALE, author of "Spoilt Guy," &c. With 4 full-page Illustrations. Crown 8vo, cloth elegant, 2s. 6d.

This is a lively and amusing account of a family, the members of which while they lived in affluence were remarkable for their discontent, but who, after the loss of fortune has compelled them to seek a more humble home in Jersey, become less selfish, and develop very excellent traits of character under the pressure of comparative adversity.

"'The Family Failing' is at once an amusing and an interesting story, and a capital lesson on the value of contentedness."—Aberdeen Journal.

BY ROSA MULHOLLAND.

HETTY GRAY:

Or Nobody's Bairn. By ROSA MULHOLLAND. With 4 full-page Illustrations in black and tint. Cr. 8vo, cloth extra, 2s. 6d.

"Hetty Gray" is the story of a girl who, having been found as an infant by a villager, is brought up by his wife, and is a kind of general pet, till an accident causes a rich widow to adopt her. On the death of her adoptive mother Hetty, who is left unprovided for, is taken by the widow's relatives to be educated with a view to her gaining her livelihood as a governess, an event which is prevented by a rather remarkable discovery.

"A pleasantly told story for girls, with a happy ending."—Athenaeum.

"A charming story for young folks. Hetty is a delightful creature—piquant, tender, and true—and her varying fortunes are perfectly realistic."—World.

FOUR LITTLE MISCHIEFS.

By ROSA MULHOLLAND. With 3 full-page Pictures in colours by GORDON BROWNE. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 2s.

The history of Kitty, Jock, Bunko, and Ba, who, after successfully weathering the mumps in their London nursery, are sent to the country to recruit. The book is full of innocent fun and attractive incident.

"Will be read with absorbing interest by the youngsters."—Land and Water.

"A charming bright story about real children."—Watchman.

THE LATE MISS HOLLINGFORD.

By ROSA MULHOLLAND. With 2 full-page Illustrations. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 1s. 6d.

This story, which was a great favourite of Charles Dickens, and originally appeared in All the Year Round, is of an orphan girl, who, leaving the gaiety and frivolity of London life, goes to live with an old friend of her mother at a farm-house. A delightful picture is given of the peaceful country life; but there is a strangely pathetic drama running through the quiet narrative, and the troubles which Marjory narrates as having been her portion in youth are sure to interest all who have sympathetic hearts.

NAUGHTY MISS BUNNY:

Her Tricks and Troubles. By CLARA MULHOLLAND. With 3 Illustrations in colours. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 2s.

The story consists of small incidents such as please small listeners, who will be interested not only in Miss Bunny's naughtiness, but in her reformation.

"This naughty child is positively delightful. Papas should not omit 'Naughty Miss Bunny' from their list of juvenile presents."—Land and Water.

BY KATE WOOD.

WINNIE'S SECRET:

A Story of Faith and Patience. By KATE WOOD. With 4 full-page Pictures in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 2s. 6d.

Tells the story of two orphan girls, who, at an early age, are left in a miserable den of London to struggle for a living. The vicissitudes of the little sisters are narrated with touching sympathy, at times sad enough; but relieved by flashes of fun and gleams of genuine humour.

"One of the best story-books we have read. Girls will be charmed with the tale."—Schoolmaster.

"A very pretty tale, with great variety of incident and subtle character study, written precisely in the style that is surest to win the hearts of young folks."—Pictorial World.

A WAIF OF THE SEA:

Or, the Lost Found. By KATE WOOD. With 4 full-page Illustrations in black and tint. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 2s. 6d.

"A Waif of the Sea" deals very pathetically with the sorrows and trials of children, and of mothers who are separated from their children. The narrative is full of human interest, and the lives and struggles of the people of a poor London neighbourhood are well portrayed.

"A very touching and pretty tale of town and country, full of pathos and interest, embodied in a narrative which never flags, and told in a style which deserves the highest praise for its lucid and natural ease."—Edinburgh Courant.

BY ANNIE S. SWAN.

WARNER'S CHASE:

Or the Gentle Heart. By ANNIE S. SWAN. With 3 Illustrations printed in colours. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 2s.

"Warner's Chase" is a domestic story, in which we see the failure of an essentially self-seeking and self-assertive nature to secure happiness to itself or bestow it upon others, and the triumph of gentleness, love, and unselfish service, in the person of a feeble girl.

"A good book for boys and girls. There is nothing sentimental in it, but a tone of quiet and true religion that keeps its own place."—Perth Advertiser.

"In Milly Warren, the heroine, who unwittingly restores the family fortunes, we have a fine ideal of real womanly goodness."—Schoolmaster.

INTO THE HAVEN.

By ANNIE S. SWAN. With 2 Illustrations printed in colours. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 1s. 6d.

"No story more attractive, by reason of its breezy freshness and unforced pathos, as well as for the practical lessons it conveys."—Christian Leader.

BY CAROLINE AUSTIN.

DOROTHY'S DILEMMA:

A Tale of the Time of Charles I. By CAROLINE AUSTIN. With 3 full-page Illustrations. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 2s.

This is a story of the time of Charles I., and the opening scenes are laid in a remote country district through which the king passes in his flight to the north. A little Puritan maiden, Dorothy Hardcastle, is induced to afford a night's shelter to his majesty unknown to her father, who has fought on the side of the Parliament. In the event, her deception costs her father his life, and she is removed to London, whither her only brother John also goes. The story follows them both through their strange adventures in the great city, and leaves them setting sail for the New World, full of sorrow for past mistakes and with an earnest desire to lead a true, unselfish life on the other side of the sea.

MARIE'S HOME:

Or, A Glimpse of the Past. By CAROLINE AUSTIN. With 3 full-page Illustrations. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 2s.

This record of an early life, spent partly in an old English home and partly amid stirring scenes of the French revolution, teaches just such lessons of unselfish love as are of value to English maidens of to-day.

"An exquisitely told story. The heroine is as fine a type of girlhood as one could wish to set before our little British damsels."—Christian Leader.

"A pure, fresh story of what is the result in a young girl's life when it is governed by unselfishness and a sense of duty."—Bradford Observer.

BY AMY WALTON.

THE HAWTHORNES.

By AMY WALTON. With 3 full-page Illustrations by J. J. PROCTOR. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 2s.

Describes in eight chapters the joys and troubles of five children living in a country rectory—their faults, fancies, pets, and amusements, written in simple language, and fit for children who love the country.

OUR FRANK.

By AMY WALTON. With 2 full-page Illustrations. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 1s. 6d.

Six stories suitable for young readers. "Our Frank," which is the longest, describes the fortunes of a runaway boy in the Buckinghamshire woods—how he met with a tramp, how they travelled together, and how, after all, Frank found that "From East to West, At Home is best."

BY THOMAS ARCHER.

LITTLE TOTTIE,

And Two Other Stories. By THOMAS ARCHER. With 3 full-page Illustrations by J. J. PROCTOR. Crown 8vo, cloth extra, 2s.