It was early autumn, for the clusters of grapes above me were already purple, and the forest leaves were tinged with red. And yet the air was soft, and the golden bars of sun flickered down on the work in my lap through the laced branches of the trellis. The work was but a pretense, for I had fled the house to escape the voice of Monsieur Cassion who was still urging my uncle to accompany him on his journey into the wilderness. They sat in the great room before the fireplace, drinking, and...

The Ultimate Collection of Randall Parrish packs exciting tales of adventure, civil war, pirates & wild west in one edition. Contents: Wolves of the Sea My Lady of the North My Lady of the South My Lady of Doubt When Wilderness Was King The Red Mist Love Under Fire The Devil's Own Bob Hampton of Placer Beth Norvell Keith of the Border Molly McDonald Beyond the Frontier The Strange Case of Cavendish The Case and the Girl Gordon Craig Prisoners of Chance

It was then that the power of thought returned to me. However glibly those two conspirators might gild over the affair it nevertheless was a criminal matter to which I had blindly committed myself. Neale's parting words of warning alone made that clearly evident. They understood the risk of discovery, and now I also comprehended it with equal clearness. Fraud and forgery were contemplated, had been coolly planned, and it occurred to me that I was the one selected for sacrifice in case of d...

IT WAS already growing dusk when the Staunton Battery of Horse Artillery returned wearily to camp after hours of hard field drill, the men ever conscious that no evolution, however trivial, was being overlooked by "Stonewall" Jackson, sitting astride his sorrel on a little eminence to the left, his stern face unrelieved by even the semblance of a smile. He would criticise without mercy, but never praise, and the artillerymen insensibly stiffened to the work, as eager to do well as though t...

When, late in May, 1868, Major Daniel McDonald, Sixth Infantry, was first assigned to command the new three company post established southwest of Fort Dodge, designed to protect the newly discovered Cimarron trail leading to Santa Fé across the desert, and, purely by courtesy, officially termed Fort Devere, he naturally considered it perfectly safe to invite his only daughter to join him there for her summer vacation. Indeed, at that time, there was apparently no valid reason why he should...

I am Geoffrey Benteen, Gentleman Adventurer, with much experience upon the border, where I have passed my life. My father was that Robert Benteen, merchant in furs, the first of the English race to make permanent settlement in New Orleans. Here he established a highly profitable trade with the Indians, his bateaux voyaging as far northward as the falls of the Ohio, while his influence among the tribesmen extended to the eastern mountains. My mother was of Spanish blood, a native of Saint A...

Several of us had remained rather late that evening about the cheerful fire in front of my hut,—for the nights were still chilly, although it was May, and the dreadful winter passed,—discussing the improved condition of our troops, the rigid discipline of Baron de Steuben, and speculating on what would probably be attempted now that Sir Henry Clinton had succeeded to the command of the forces opposing us. I remember Maxwell joined us, together with Knox of the artillery, each man with a di...

There were nine altogether in the party registering. This number included the manager, who, both on and off the stage, quite successfully impersonated the villain—a rather heavy-jawed, middle-aged fellow, of foreign appearance, with coarse, gruff voice; three representatives of the gentler sex; a child of eight, exact species unknown, wrapped up like a mummy; and four males. Beyond doubt the most notable member of the troupe was the comedian "star," Mr. T. Macready Lane, whose well-known c...

In "Beth Norvell," Parrish likely explores themes common to Western romances, such as adventure, love, and the rugged landscape of the American frontier. The titular character, Beth Norvell, may be depicted as a strong, independent woman navigating the challenges of life in the Wild West.As with many novels in the Western genre, readers can expect elements of action, suspense, and exploration of moral dilemmas set against the backdrop of the American West. Parrish's work may also offer ins...

In "My Lady of Doubt," Parrish likely weaves a tale set against a historical backdrop, incorporating elements of romance, adventure, and intrigue. The title suggests themes of uncertainty and skepticism, and the narrative may involve a complex relationship or a protagonist grappling with doubts and uncertainties.Parrish's writing often captures the spirit of the time periods he explores, and his historical novels are known for their attention to detail and vivid portrayal of characters and...

In "The Strange Case of Cavendish," Parrish weaves a tale of mystery, adventure, and romance. The story follows the protagonist, Harry Cavendish, who finds himself entangled in a web of intrigue and danger as he navigates the challenges of life in the western frontier. As Cavendish delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding him, he encounters a diverse cast of characters, confronts perilous situations, and ultimately seeks to uncover the truth.Randall Parrish's writing style typically in...

In "Bob Hampton of Placer," readers are likely taken on a journey through the rugged landscapes of the American West during the late 19th century. The story may revolve around the adventures of the titular character, Bob Hampton, who could be portrayed as a brave and resourceful figure navigating the challenges of frontier life.As with many Western novels, "Bob Hampton of Placer" may feature themes of courage, honor, and justice, set against the backdrop of the untamed wilderness. The narr...