A classic story of chivalry and romance, this novel written in 1889 by C.P.E. Burgwyn covers a courtship between an aristocratic young woman from Boston and a former Confederate general. Edyth Prescott, the heroine of the story, is accompanied by her father on trips to Washington D.C. and Richmond, Virginia. Needless to say, the southern sojourn ended up being much more than either of them bargained for.

Reception

The book was well-received in its day. As one reviewer wrote, "a novel from the pen of Mr. Burgwyn will be read with interest by his many Richmond friends." To their personal interest in the author will be added the pleasure of an ideal Virginia story.

Setting and Characters

The local coloring of the work as well as the faithful portraiture of typical Virginia characters is marked. The descriptions of Washington, Richmond, and the Battle of Fredericksburg are vivid, faithful, and accurate. Edith attracts us by her purity and high-mindedness as well as by the beauty of her form and face, whilst the Carters possess the manly virtues that should mark those who bear that name.

Story and Style

The story line of the novel is well sustained, whilst Mr. Burgwyn's pages are often illumined by a genuine eloquence and tender pathos.