Short Stories/Novellas

Souls Belated is a novel written by the renowned American author Edith Wharton. The story is set in the late 19th century and revolves around two characters, Lydia and Gannett, who are both in unhappy marriages. They meet on a train and strike up a conversation, which leads to a deep connection between them. Despite their mutual attraction, they decide to part ways and return to their respective spouses.However, fate brings them together again when they both find themselves at the same hotel in Germany. This time, they give in to their desires and begin a passionate affair. As they navigate their newfound love, they must also confront the societal expectations and moral codes that threaten to tear them apart.Souls Belated is a poignant exploration of love, marriage, and the constraints of society. Wharton's masterful prose and vivid descriptions transport readers to a bygone era and capture the complexities of human relationships. The novel is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today.She stayed there for a long time, in the hypnotized contemplation, not of Mrs. Cope's present, but of her own past. Gannett, early that morning, had gone off on a long walk--he had fallen into the habit of taking these mountain tramps with various fellow lodgers; but even had he been within reach she could not have gone to him just then. She had to deal with herself first. She was surprised to find how, in the last months, she had lost the habit of introspection. Since their coming to the Hotel Bellosguardo she and Gannett had tacitly avoided themselves and each other.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

The Lady's Maid's Bell is a short story written by Edith Wharton, an American novelist and short story writer. The story was first published in 1902 and is set in the Victorian era.The story revolves around a young woman named Alice Hartley, who is hired as a lady's maid for the wealthy Mrs. Brympton. Alice is initially excited about her new job, but she soon realizes that her duties are not as glamorous as she had imagined. Mrs. Brympton is a demanding and difficult employer, and Alice finds herself working long hours and struggling to meet her mistress's expectations.One night, Alice hears the sound of a bell ringing in the middle of the night. She assumes it is Mrs. Brympton's bell and rushes to her room, only to find that her mistress is fast asleep. The bell continues to ring, and Alice discovers that it is coming from the room of the previous lady's maid, who died under mysterious circumstances.As the story unfolds, Alice becomes increasingly obsessed with the bell and the secrets it holds. She begins to investigate the death of the previous lady's maid and uncovers a shocking truth about Mrs. Brympton and her family.The Lady's Maid's Bell is a haunting and suspenseful tale that explores themes of class, power, and the dark secrets that lurk beneath the surface of polite society. Wharton's vivid descriptions and masterful storytelling make this a must-read for fans of Gothic literature and Victorian-era fiction.After a while I slept; but suddenly a loud noise wakened me. My bell had rung. I sat up, terrified by the unusual sound, which seemed to go on jangling through the darkness. My hands shook so that I couldn't find the matches. At length I struck a light and jumped out of bed. I began to think I must have been dreaming; but I looked at the bell against the wall, and there was the little hammer still quivering.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

""The Quicksand"" is a novella written by Edith Wharton, an American author known for her insightful and realistic portrayals of upper-class society in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The story follows the life of a young woman named Heloise, who is trapped in a loveless marriage to a wealthy but cruel man named Arnold. Heloise longs for freedom and escape from her unhappy life, but finds herself sinking deeper and deeper into a metaphorical quicksand of despair and hopelessness. As she struggles to find a way out, she is forced to confront the harsh realities of her situation and the limitations of her own power. With its vivid descriptions of New York City's high society and its exploration of themes such as love, marriage, and personal agency, ""The Quicksand"" is a poignant and thought-provoking work of fiction.On the Fenno threshold a sudden sense of the futility of the attempt had almost driven Mrs. Quentin back to her carriage; but the door was already opening, and a parlor-maid who believed that Miss Fenno was in led the way to the depressing drawing-room. It was the kind of room in which no member of the family is likely to be found except after dinner or after death.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

The Other Two is a short story written by Edith Wharton, first published in 1904. The story revolves around a man named Waythorn, who has been married twice before and is now married to his third wife, Alice. Waythorn is a successful businessman who is determined to make his marriage to Alice work, despite feeling insecure about her past relationships. The story follows Waythorn's attempts to come to terms with the fact that Alice's ex-husbands, Haskett and Varick, are still a part of her life. He is uncomfortable with their presence, but Alice seems to be completely oblivious to his discomfort. Waythorn's attempts to assert his dominance and establish himself as the head of the household are constantly undermined by Alice's interactions with her ex-husbands. As the story progresses, Waythorn begins to realize that Alice's past relationships are not as innocent as he initially believed. He discovers that Alice had an affair with Varick while she was still married to Haskett, and that Haskett is still in love with her. Waythorn's jealousy and insecurity reach a boiling point, and he confronts Alice about her past. The Other Two is a poignant exploration of jealousy, insecurity, and the complexities of human relationships. Wharton's masterful storytelling and vivid characterizations make this short story a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today.The scene left Waythorn deeply shaken. Shamefacedly, in indirect ways, he had been finding out about Haskett; and all that he had learned was favorable. The little man, in order to be near his daughter, had sold out his share in a profitable business in Utica, and accepted a modest clerkship in a New York manufacturing house. He boarded in a shabby street and had few acquaintances. His passion for Lily filled his life. Waythorn felt that this exploration of Haskett was like groping about with a dark-lantern in his wife's past.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

The Mission of Jane is a novel written by Edith Wharton, a renowned American author. The book tells the story of Jane Leavenworth, a wealthy and privileged woman who decides to devote her life to helping the less fortunate. Jane is a woman of great compassion and empathy, and she is determined to make a difference in the world.The novel is set in the early 20th century and explores themes of social inequality, poverty, and the role of women in society. Jane's mission takes her to the slums of New York City, where she meets a variety of people who are struggling to survive. She becomes involved in various charitable organizations, including a settlement house and a mission for homeless women.As Jane becomes more deeply involved in her mission, she begins to question her own privileged background and the values that she has been raised with. She also faces opposition from some of her wealthy friends and family members who do not understand her desire to help the poor.Throughout the novel, Wharton presents a nuanced portrayal of Jane's character, showing both her strengths and weaknesses. The author also provides a vivid depiction of life in the slums of New York City during this time period, highlighting the challenges faced by those living in poverty.Overall, The Mission of Jane is a thought-provoking novel that explores important social issues and the complexities of human nature.The blow was bitter to Mrs. Lethbury; but she consoled herself with the idea that Jane had failed because she was too clever. Jane probably shared this conviction; at all events she betrayed no consciousness of failure. She had developed a pronounced taste for society, and went out, unweariedly and obstinately, winter after winter, while Mrs. Lethbury toiled in her wake, showering attentions on oblivious hostesses.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the original. Due to its age, it may contain imperfections such as marks, notations, marginalia and flawed pages. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions that are true to the original work.

This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the original. Due to its age, it may contain imperfections such as marks, notations, marginalia and flawed pages. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions that are true to the original work.

""The Eyes"" is a short story written by Edith Wharton, an American novelist and short story writer. The story revolves around Mrs. Newell, a wealthy woman who is obsessed with her own beauty and the power it gives her over men. She is married to a much older man, Mr. Newell, who is blind and unaware of his wife's affairs. Mrs. Newell's obsession with her beauty leads her to manipulate and deceive those around her, including her husband and a young man named Ned Van Alstyne, whom she seduces and then discards. However, her actions have consequences, and she ultimately meets a tragic end. The story explores themes of beauty, power, and the consequences of one's actions. Wharton's writing style is known for its psychological depth, and ""The Eyes"" is no exception, delving into the complex motivations and desires of its characters. Overall, ""The Eyes"" is a compelling and thought-provoking read that offers insight into the darker aspects of human nature.Phil, my dear boy, really -- what's the matter? Why don't you answer? Have you seen the eyes?' Frenham's face was still hidden, and from where I stood behind Culwin I saw the latter, as if under the rebuff of this unaccountable attitude, draw back slowly from his friend. As he did so, the light of the lamp on the table fell full on his congested face, and I caught its reflection in the mirror behind Frenham's head.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

Purchase one of 1st World Library's Classic Books and help support our free internet library of downloadable eBooks. Visit us online at www.1stWorldLibrary.ORG - - In the days when New York's traffic moved at the pace of the drooping horse-car, when society applauded Christine Nilsson at the Academy of Music and basked in the sunsets of the Hudson River School on the walls of the National Academy of Design, an inconspicuous shop with a single show-window was intimately and favourably known to the feminine population of the quarter bordering on Stuyvesant Square. It was a very small shop, in a shabby basement, in a side-street already doomed to decline; and from the miscellaneous display behind the window-pane, and the brevity of the sign surmounting it (merely "Bunner Sisters" in blotchy gold on a black ground) it would have been difficult for the uninitiated to guess the precise nature of the business carried on within. But that was of little consequence, since its fame was so purely local that the customers on whom its existence depended were almost congenitally aware of the exact range of "goods" to be found at Bunner Sisters'.

This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the original. Due to its age, it may contain imperfections such as marks, notations, marginalia and flawed pages. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions that are true to the original work.

'If marriage was the slow life-long acquittal of a debt contracted in ignorance, then marriage was a crime against human nature.' Two moving stories of love, loss, desire and divorce, from one of the great chroniclers of nineteenth-century New York life. Introducing Little Black Classics: 80 books for Penguin's 80th birthday. Little Black Classics celebrate the huge range and diversity of Penguin Classics, with books from around the world and across many centuries. They take us from a balloon ride over Victorian London to a garden of blossom in Japan, from Tierra del Fuego to 16th-century California and the Russian steppe. Here are stories lyrical and savage; poems epic and intimate; essays satirical and inspirational; and ideas that have shaped the lives of millions. Edith Wharton (1862-1937). Wharton's works available in Penguin Classics are Ethan Frome, The Age of Innocence, The Custom of the Country and The House of Mirth.

The Last Asset is a novel written by Edith Wharton, an American author known for her works on social commentary and the upper class. The story follows the life of a young woman named Lydia, who is born into a wealthy family but is forced to confront the harsh realities of life when her father loses all their money in a financial crisis. Lydia is then forced to work as a governess to make ends meet and support her family. As she navigates through her new life, Lydia encounters different characters from different walks of life, including a wealthy businessman who takes an interest in her, a struggling artist who becomes her friend, and a corrupt politician who tries to take advantage of her situation. Throughout the novel, Wharton explores themes of social class, gender roles, and the struggle for independence and self-discovery. The Last Asset is a poignant and thought-provoking work that showcases Wharton's talent for insightful social commentary and vivid characterizations.She received the tribute with complacency. ""The rooms are not bad, are they? We came over with the Woolsey Hubbards (you've heard of them, of course? -- they're from Detroit), and really they do things very decently. Their motor-car met us at Boulogne, and the courier always wires ahead to have the rooms filled with flowers. This salon, is really a part of their suite. I simply couldn't have afforded it myself.""This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the original. Due to its age, it may contain imperfections such as marks, notations, marginalia and flawed pages. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions that are true to the original work.

This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the original. Due to its age, it may contain imperfections such as marks, notations, marginalia and flawed pages. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions that are true to the original work.

The Recovery is a novel written by Edith Wharton. The story is set in the early 20th century and follows the life of a young woman named Lydia Orr, who is recovering from a nervous breakdown. Lydia is a wealthy socialite who has always lived a privileged life, but her breakdown has left her feeling lost and disconnected from the world around her.As Lydia tries to regain her strength and find her place in society, she meets a number of interesting characters, including a doctor who helps her through her recovery, a wealthy businessman who is interested in her, and a group of artists who introduce her to a new way of life.Throughout the novel, Wharton explores themes of mental health, social status, and the role of women in society. She also delves into the complexities of human relationships and the challenges that come with trying to find one's place in the world.Overall, The Recovery is a thought-provoking and engaging novel that offers a unique perspective on life in the early 20th century. Wharton's writing is insightful and beautifully crafted, making this book a must-read for fans of classic literature.They moved about from room to room without exchanging a word. The vast noiseless space seemed full of sound, like the roar of a distant multitude heard only by the inner ear. Had their speech been articulate their language would have been incomprehensible; and even that far-off murmur of meaning pressed intolerably on Claudia's throbbing nerves. Keniston took the onset without outward sign of disturbance.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

The Introducers is a novel by the American author Edith Wharton. The story revolves around the lives of two women, Mrs. Pauline Manford and Mrs. Winthrop Tremont, who are both known for their social skills and their ability to introduce people into high society. The novel is set in New York City during the early 20th century, a time when social status and wealth were highly valued.Mrs. Manford is a widow who has dedicated her life to introducing young women into society. She is highly respected by her peers and is considered an authority on the subject. Mrs. Tremont, on the other hand, is a wealthy socialite who is known for her extravagant parties and her ability to connect people.The two women meet and become friends, and together they navigate the complicated world of high society. They introduce each other to their respective circles, and as they do so, they encounter a variety of characters, including young debutantes, wealthy businessmen, and social climbers.As the story unfolds, the two women must navigate their own personal struggles as well. Mrs. Manford is dealing with the loss of her husband, while Mrs. Tremont is struggling with the realization that her wealth and status may not be enough to secure her place in society.The Introducers is a fascinating look at the world of high society during a time when social status and wealth were everything. Wharton's keen observations and sharp wit make this novel a must-read for anyone interested in the social dynamics of the early 20th century.""Oh, yes, you can. That's my reason for asking you. You see, I really can't help Magraw much. It takes a woman to give a man a start. Aline will say, 'Oh, bring him, if you choose' -- but when he comes she won't take any notice of him, or introduce him to any of the nice women. He was too shy to go to the Summertons' last night -- he's really very shy under his loudness -- so Aline's dance will be his first appearance in Newport.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the original. Due to its age, it may contain imperfections such as marks, notations, marginalia and flawed pages. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions that are true to the original work.

This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the original. Due to its age, it may contain imperfections such as marks, notations, marginalia and flawed pages. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions that are true to the original work.

The Refugees is a collection of short stories written by Edith Wharton, an American author known for her novels and short stories that explore the complexities of society and human relationships. The book was originally published in 1915 and contains eight stories that revolve around the theme of displacement and the experiences of people who are forced to leave their homes and seek refuge elsewhere.The stories in The Refugees are set in various locations, including Europe and America, and feature characters who are struggling to adapt to new environments and cope with the challenges of being a refugee. In one story, a young woman from a wealthy family is forced to flee her home in Europe and move to America after her father is accused of embezzlement. In another story, a group of American tourists in Europe are stranded in a small town after their train is delayed, and they must rely on the kindness of strangers to survive.Throughout the book, Wharton explores themes of identity, culture, and belonging, as well as the psychological toll of displacement and the ways in which people cope with trauma and loss. The stories are written in Wharton's signature style, with vivid descriptions, nuanced characters, and a keen eye for social commentary.Overall, The Refugees is a powerful and poignant collection of stories that offers a glimpse into the lives of people who have been uprooted from their homes and forced to start anew. It is a timeless work of literature that continues to resonate with readers today.He had in truth a dramatic imagination without the power of expression. Instead of writing novels he read them; instead of living adventures he dreamed them. Being naturally modest he had long since discovered his limitations, and decided that all his imagination would ever do for him was to give him a greater freedom of judgment than his neighbors had. Even that was something to be thankful for; but now he began to ask himself if it was enough.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

Georgie, jeune fille intelligente mais fantasque et goste, dcide un jour d'vincer son fianc, trop oisif, pour un vieux lord immensment riche... Mais a-t-elle vraiment fait le bon choix Edith Wharton, malgr son jeune ge l'poque o elle rdige ce roman, dnonce les intrigues de la socit aristocrate anglaise de la fin du XIXe sicle : l'hypocrisie des mariages intresss, les ingalits sociales et le peu de libert des femmes face aux privilges masculins. Elle fait suivre ce court roman d'une nouvelle acide sur le monde des critiques littraires, o elle libre toute sa verve et son sens de l'autodrision !

Edith Wharton (1862-1937), born Edith Newbold Jones, was an American novelist, short story writer, and designer. She combined her insider's view of America's privileged classes with a brilliant, natural wit to write humourous and incisive novels and short stories. Wharton was well-acquainted with many of her era's literary and public figures, including Henry James and Theodore Roosevelt. Besides her writing, she was a highly regarded landscape architect, interior designer, and taste-maker of her time. She wrote several influential books, including The Decoration of Houses (1897), her first published work, and Italian Villas and Their Gardens (1904). The Age of Innocence (1920), perhaps her best known work, won the 1921 Pulitzer Prize for literature, making her the first woman to win the award. Her other works include: The Greater Inclination (1899), The Touchstone (1900), Sanctuary (1903), The Descent of Man and Other Stories (1904), The House of Mirth (1905), Madame de Treymes (1907), The Fruit of the Tree (1907), The Hermit and the Wild Woman and Other Stories (1908), Ethan Frome (1912), In Morocco (1921), and The Glimpses of the Moon (1921).

Edith Wharton (1862-1937), born Edith Newbold Jones, was an American novelist, short story writer, and designer. She combined her insider's view of America's privileged classes with a brilliant, natural wit to write humourous and incisive novels and short stories. Wharton was well-acquainted with many of her era's literary and public figures, including Henry James and Theodore Roosevelt. Besides her writing, she was a highly regarded landscape architect, interior designer, and taste-maker of her time. She wrote several influential books, including The Decoration of Houses (1897), her first published work, and Italian Villas and Their Gardens (1904). The Age of Innocence (1920), perhaps her best known work, won the 1921 Pulitzer Prize for literature, making her the first woman to win the award. Her other works include: The Greater Inclination (1899), The Touchstone (1900), Sanctuary (1903), The Descent of Man and Other Stories (1904), The House of Mirth (1905), Madame de Treymes (1907), The Fruit of the Tree (1907), The Hermit and the Wild Woman and Other Stories (1908), Ethan Frome (1912), In Morocco (1921), and The Glimpses of the Moon (1921).