Under the Red Dragon

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383
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About this ebook

James Grant (1822-87) was a Scottish novelist and historian. This novel set during the Crimean War of 1853-56 was first published in book form in 1872, having previously been serialised in Tinsley's Magazine from October 1871-August 1872. Excerpt: "And she is to be there--nay, is there already; so one more chance is given me to meet her. But for what?--to part again silently, and more helplessly bewitched than ever, perhaps. Ah, never will she learn to love me as I love her!" thought I, as I turned over my old friend's letter, not venturing, however, to give utterance to this aloud, as the quizzical eyes of Phil Caradoc were upon me. "A penny for your thoughts, friend Harry?" said he, laughing; "try another cigar, and rouse yourself. What the deuce is in this letter, that it affects you so? Have you put a pot of money on the wrong horse?" "Been jilted, had a bill returned, or what?" suggested Gwynne. "Neither, fortunately," said I; "it is simply an invitation from Sir Madoc Lloyd, which rather perplexes me." At this time our regiment was then in the East, awaiting with the rest of the army some movement to be made from Varna, either towards Bessarabia or the Crimea--men's minds were undecided as to which, while her Majesty's Ministers seemed to have no thought on the subject. Our depôt belonged to the provisional battalion at Winchester, where Caradoc, Gwynne, two other subalterns, and I, with some two hundred rank and file, expected ere long the fiat of the fates who reign at the Horse Guards to send us forth to win our laurels from the Russians, or, what seemed more probable, a grave where the pest was then decimating our hapless army, in the beautiful but perilous vale of Aladdyn, on the coast of Bulgaria. We had just adjourned from mess, to have a quiet cheroot and glass of brandy-and-water in my quarters, when I received from my man, Owen Evans, the letter the contents of which awakened so many new hopes and tantalising wishes in my heart, and on which so much of my fate in the future might hinge...
James Grant (1822-87) was a Scottish novelist and historian. This novel set during the Crimean War of 1853-56 was first published in book form in 1872, having previously been serialised in Tinsley's Magazine from October 1871-August 1872. Excerpt: "And she is to be there--nay, is there already; s...

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About the author

James Grant (1822-1887) was a prolific Scottish novelist and historian whose works vividly captured the spirit and tumult of 19th-century Britain. Born in Edinburgh, Grant's early life was steeped in the rich literary traditions of Scotland, which profoundly influenced his writing style. He began his career as a journalist, but his passion for storytelling soon led him to fiction, where he found his true calling.Grant's novels often explored themes of military valor, historical intrigue, and romantic adventure, reflecting his fascination with Britain's martial past. His detailed and immersive narratives were not just entertainment; they served as a lens through which readers could engage with historical events and figures, making history accessible and exciting.One of the most intriguing aspects of Grant's career was his ability to blend fact with fiction, a technique that earned him both praise and controversy. Critics sometimes accused him of taking liberties with historical accuracy, but his defenders argued that his creative interpretations brought history to life in a way that pure scholarship could not.Grant's influence extended beyond his own era, inspiring contemporary writers who admired his ability to weave complex plots with rich historical detail. His works were a precursor to the historical novels of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, setting a standard for historical fiction that balanced rigorous research with compelling storytelling.In addition to his literary contributions, Grant was a vocal advocate for the preservation of historical sites and artifacts, recognizing their importance in understanding and appreciating the past. His efforts in this area were pioneering, laying the groundwork for future historical preservation movements.James Grant remains a significant figure in literary history, celebrated for his dynamic storytelling and his dedication to bringing the past to life for readers of all ages.
James Grant (1822-1887) was a prolific Scottish novelist and historian whose works vividly captured the spirit and tumult of 19th-century Britain. Born in Edinburgh, Grant's early life was steeped in the rich literary traditions of Scotland, which profoundly influenced his writing style. He began...

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