A Gentleman's Gentleman 1909 By: Francis Hopkinson Smith (1838-1915)
A Gentleman's Gentleman, published in 1909, is a charming and heartwarming novel written by the talented Francis Hopkinson Smith. Set against the backdrop of turn-of-the-century America, this delightful story takes readers on a journey filled with adventure, friendship, and personal growth. The narrative centers around the protagonist, a gentleman by the name of William, who leads a rather unassuming life working as a valet for a wealthy and eccentric businessman. However, beneath his reserved exterior lies a man yearning for more. When he unexpectedly inherits a vast fortune, William's life takes an unexpected twist, offering him the opportunity to survive and thrive in a completely different world. One of the book's greatest strengths is Smith's ability to develop characters that are authentic and relatable. From the outset, readers will find themselves deeply invested in William's personal journey as he navigates the intricacies of his newfound wealth. Smith masterfully portrays the internal struggle William faces, torn between embracing a life of luxury and maintaining his humble and genuine self. The author weaves a beautiful and vivid tapestry of descriptions throughout the novel, skillfully bringing the setting to life. From bustling city streets to lavish parties in opulent mansions, Smith paints a vivid picture of a bygone era, immersing readers in a world of elegance and refinement. A Gentleman's Gentleman also offers insightful social commentary, exploring themes of class divide, identity, and the pursuit of happiness. Through his interactions with a diverse cast of characters, William is confronted with the stark realities of society, challenging readers to question the true meaning of success and fulfillment. While the pace of the story may feel leisurely at times, Smith's elegant prose and attention to detail keep readers engaged from start to finish. The narrative flows smoothly, effortlessly transitioning between poignant moments of self-reflection and moments of lightheartedness. In conclusion, A Gentleman's Gentleman is a testament to Francis Hopkinson Smith's literary prowess. This captivating novel not only captivates readers with its engrossing storyline but also offers profound insights into the human condition. With its endearing characters, richly detailed world, and thought-provoking themes, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking an escape into a world of class, consequence, and personal discovery. First Page: A GENTLEMAN'S GENTLEMAN By F. Hopkinson Smith 1909 I I had left Sandy MacWhirter crooning over his smouldering wood fire the day Boggs blew in with news of the sale of Mac's two pictures at the Academy, and his reply to my inquiry regarding his future plans (vaguely connected with a certain girl in a steamer chair), "By the next steamer, my boy," still rang in my ears, but my surprise was none the less genuine when I looked up from my easel, two months later, at Sonning on the Thames and caught sight of the dear fellow, with Lonnegan by his side, striding down the tow path in search of me. "By the Great Horn Spoon!" came the cry. And the next minute his big arms were about my shoulders, his cheery laugh filling the summer air. Lonnegan's greeting was equally hearty and spontaneous, but it came with less noise. "He's been roaring that way ever since we left London," said the architect. "Ever since we landed, really," and he nodded at Mac. "Awfully glad to see you, old man!" The next moment the three of us were flat on the grass telling our experiences, the silver sheen of the river flashing between the low branched trees lining the banks. Lonnegan's story ran thus: Mac had disappeared the morning after their arrival; had remained away two weeks, reappearing again with a grin on his face that had frozen stiff and had never relaxed its grip... Continue reading book >>

A Gentleman's Gentleman 1909 By: Francis Hopkinson Smith (1838-1915)

A Gentleman's Gentleman, published in 1909, is a charming and heartwarming novel written by the talented Francis Hopkinson Smith. Set against the backdrop of turn-of-the-century America, this delightful story takes readers on a journey filled with adventure, friendship, and personal growth.

The narrative centers around the protagonist, a gentleman by the name of William, who leads a rather unassuming life working as a valet for a wealthy and eccentric businessman. However, beneath his reserved exterior lies a man yearning for more. When he unexpectedly inherits a vast fortune, William's life takes an unexpected twist, offering him the opportunity to survive and thrive in a completely different world.

One of the book's greatest strengths is Smith's ability to develop characters that are authentic and relatable. From the outset, readers will find themselves deeply invested in William's personal journey as he navigates the intricacies of his newfound wealth. Smith masterfully portrays the internal struggle William faces, torn between embracing a life of luxury and maintaining his humble and genuine self.

The author weaves a beautiful and vivid tapestry of descriptions throughout the novel, skillfully bringing the setting to life. From bustling city streets to lavish parties in opulent mansions, Smith paints a vivid picture of a bygone era, immersing readers in a world of elegance and refinement.

A Gentleman's Gentleman also offers insightful social commentary, exploring themes of class divide, identity, and the pursuit of happiness. Through his interactions with a diverse cast of characters, William is confronted with the stark realities of society, challenging readers to question the true meaning of success and fulfillment.

While the pace of the story may feel leisurely at times, Smith's elegant prose and attention to detail keep readers engaged from start to finish. The narrative flows smoothly, effortlessly transitioning between poignant moments of self-reflection and moments of lightheartedness.

In conclusion, A Gentleman's Gentleman is a testament to Francis Hopkinson Smith's literary prowess. This captivating novel not only captivates readers with its engrossing storyline but also offers profound insights into the human condition. With its endearing characters, richly detailed world, and thought-provoking themes, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking an escape into a world of class, consequence, and personal discovery.

First Page:

A GENTLEMAN'S GENTLEMAN

By F. Hopkinson Smith

1909

I had left Sandy MacWhirter crooning over his smouldering wood fire the day Boggs blew in with news of the sale of Mac's two pictures at the Academy, and his reply to my inquiry regarding his future plans (vaguely connected with a certain girl in a steamer chair), "By the next steamer, my boy," still rang in my ears, but my surprise was none the less genuine when I looked up from my easel, two months later, at Sonning on the Thames and caught sight of the dear fellow, with Lonnegan by his side, striding down the tow path in search of me.

"By the Great Horn Spoon!" came the cry. And the next minute his big arms were about my shoulders, his cheery laugh filling the summer air.

Lonnegan's greeting was equally hearty and spontaneous, but it came with less noise.

"He's been roaring that way ever since we left London," said the architect. "Ever since we landed, really," and he nodded at Mac. "Awfully glad to see you, old man!"

The next moment the three of us were flat on the grass telling our experiences, the silver sheen of the river flashing between the low branched trees lining the banks.

Lonnegan's story ran thus:

Mac had disappeared the morning after their arrival; had remained away two weeks, reappearing again with a grin on his face that had frozen stiff and had never relaxed its grip... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature
Short stories

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Wikipedia – Francis Hopkinson Smith
Wikipedia – A Gentleman's Gentleman 1909

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