Publisher's Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1898 edition. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XI. ON one of the clusters of islands that was near to David's lived a family of more refinement than the ordinary settlers. They were Massachusetts born and bred, meeting with adverse fortunes while living there. Hearing novel tales of the natural advantages of these islands on the Maine coast, they decided to settle there. Mr. Lane was a smart and stirring man, past middle age. Both he and his wife, were people of education. They claimed to be descended from Scotch nobility, having a record of the family genealogy. The family were hardy, strong and healthy, and well adapted for a pioneer's life in a new country. His family of two boys and five girls, came with him when he took up the land, and secured his claim as a settler. Working with an enthusiastic zeal, he cleared the land and built his log-cabin, and eventually received the reward that honest labor is sure to bring. When Mr. Lane came he brought his library, which caused his neighbors to look on him with respect, and he was always treated by them, with a kind of reverance, as long as he lived. Mr. Lane entertained a favorable opinion of David, frequently inviting him to his house, and nothing would have pleased him more, than to have had David for a son-in-law. David was popular. His fame had spread amongst all the islands, far and near, on the Maine coast. More than one excursion was planned by the fishermen's girls, to go berrying on his island, (to fish for David.) The girls of Mr. Lane were skillful at rowing a wherry, and often came alone for berries. David always gave them a wide berth, for he was a bashful fellow. After various unsuccessful attempts to engage David in conversation, the lively, rosy-cheeked one, the girls called Mary, at last let her temper get the...
