A Life's Secret (New Portway Reprints) [Hardcover]

Mrs. Henry Wood (Author)

Book Description

Series: New Portway Reprints | Publication Date: February 28, 1974

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1867. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER II. CHANGES. To reflect upon the change death makes, even in the petty every-day affairs of life, must always impart a certain awe to the thoughtful mind. On the Easter Monday, spoken of in the last chapter, Richard Thornimett, his men, his contracts, and his business in progress, were all part of the life, the work, the bustle of the town of Ketterford. In a few weeks from that time, Richard Thornimett--who had not lived to see the morning light after his attack--was mouldering in the churchyard; and the business, the workshops, the artisans, all save the dwelling-house, which Mrs. Thornimett retained for herself, had passed into other hands. The name, Richard Thornimett, as one of the citizens of Ketter D 2 ford had ceased to be: all things were changed. Mrs. Thornimett's friends and acquaintances had assembled to tender counsel, after the fashion of busy-bodies of the world. Some recommended her to continue the business; some, to give it up; some, to take in a gentleman as partner; some, to pay a handsome salary to an efficient manager. Mrs. Thornimett listened politely to all, without the least intention of acting upon anybody's opinion but her own. Her mind had been made up from the first. Mr. Thornimett had died fairly well off, and everything was left to her -- half of the money to be hers for life, and then to go to different relatives; the other half was bequeathed to her absolutely, and was at her own disposal. Rumours were rife in the town, that, when things came to be realized, she would have about twelve thousand pounds in money, besides other property. But before making known her decision abroad, she spoke to Austin Clay. They were sitting together one evening when CHANGES. 37 she entered upon the subject, breaking the silence that reigned ...

--This text refers to the Paperback edition.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 448 pages
• Publisher: C.Chivers (February 28, 1974)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0855949414
• ISBN-13: 978-0855949419
• Shipping Weight: 1.7 pounds

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