Author
George M. (George Melville) Baker
1832-1890
George M. (George Melville) Baker (1832-1890) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by George M. (George Melville) Baker
Running to Waste: The Story of a Tomboy
"Running to Waste: The Story of a Tomboy" by George M. Baker is a novel written in the late 19th century. This coming-of-age story revolves around Becky Sleeper, a spirited tomboy who often finds herself in trouble due to her adventurous nature and mischievous escapades. The narrative captures her youthful defiance and the ensuing challenges she faces while navigating the expectations placed upon young girls of her time. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Becky and her brother Teddy as they embark on a light-hearted adventure to steal apples from Captain Thompson's orchard. Becky's boldness is evident as she directs Teddy from atop a wall during the heist. Their playful thievery is interrupted when Captain Thompson catches them, igniting an amusing chase. Through witty dialogue and vivid character descriptions, the opening section establishes Becky's tomboyish charm, her affinity for adventure, and the dynamic between her and her more timid brother, all set in the backdrop of their small New England town, Cleverly.
The Exhibition Drama Comprising Drama, Comedy, and Farce, Together with Dramatic and Musical Entertainments
"The Exhibition Drama" by George M. Baker is a collection of theatrical works including drama, comedy, and farce, written during the late 19th century. The book is designed for amateur performances and home theatricals, making it suitable for private exhibitions, school events, and holiday gatherings. Among its featured plays is "Enlisted for the War," which focuses on the emotional struggles of a soldier named Robert Trueworth as he and his family face the hardships during the Civil War, including themes of love, sacrifice, and socio-economic strife. The opening of the drama introduces Robert Trueworth and his family as they come to terms with the loss of their family farm, sold to pay off debts. As Robert prepares to enlist in the Union army, the dialogue reveals the interconnected lives of Robert, his mother, and sister, Mattie, as they reflect on their past and the uncertain future ahead. Wilder Rowell, the farm's new owner and guardian to the wealthy heiress Gaylie Gifford, emerges as a complicated figure, indicating conflicts of interest that will impact the relationships and aspirations of the characters. The layered emotions and conflicts established in this initial scene lay the groundwork for a story rich with personal and societal challenges amid the backdrop of war.
Seeing the Elephant
"Seeing the Elephant" by George M. Baker is a comedic play written in the early 1870s. This theatrical work revolves around the humorous consequences of a farmer's drunken antics at an auction where he inadvertently bids on an elephant, leading to chaos in his household and community. The play reflects the lively and comedic style of American theater during its time, highlighting themes of alcohol consumption, familial obligations, and humorous misunderstandings. The story centers on Silas Somerby, a farmer with a penchant for drink, who stumbles into a series of comedic misadventures after accidentally bidding on an elephant while intoxicated. As he grapples with the fallout of his drunken behavior, Silas faces demands for damages from angry neighbors whose properties his so-called elephant has destroyed. Throughout the play, Silas's family members, including his wife Rachel and son Johnny, react with disbelief and exasperation as they contend with the repercussions of his decisions. The situation is lightheartedly resolved when Harry, a friend who is in love with Silas's daughter Sally, proposes a plan to help Silas reclaim control over his life by promising to marry Sally if Silas gives up drinking. The play concludes with a blend of laughter and moral lesson, as Silas promises to reform and navigate his responsibilities more wisely.
The Mimic Stage A Series of Dramas, Comedies, Burlesques, and Farces for Public Exhibitions and Private Theatricals
"The Mimic Stage" by George M. Baker is a collection of dramatic pieces written in the late 19th century. This compilation includes a variety of comedies, dramas, burlesques, and farces specifically designed for amateur performances, highlighting the accessible nature of theater for public exhibitions and private theatricals. The collection is aimed at providing enjoyment and entertainment for young and old alike, removing the burden of cost and elaborate staging. The opening of the work presents "Down by the Sea," the first of the included dramas. This piece introduces us to several characters, including John Gale, a fisherman, and his two protégés, March and September Gale, who were rescued as infants from shipwrecks. As the story unfolds, the interactions among the characters depict a blend of humor and warmth, showcasing their relationships, aspirations, and the peculiarities of coastal life. The narrative hints at underlying themes of family and identity as they grapple with their shared past and the mysteries of their origins.
An Old Man's Prayer
"An Old Man's Prayer" by George M. Baker is a moralistic poem written in the late 19th century. This work takes the form of a narrative that conveys a cautionary tale about the dangers of alcohol, exploring themes of loss, regret, and redemption. The likely topic centers on the old man's heartfelt plea to a group of young men to avoid the pitfalls of drinking, drawing from his own painful experiences. In the story, an elderly man intrudes on a festive gathering of young men celebrating one of their own who is about to leave for war. He shares his tragic tale of wealth turned to loss due to the curse of alcoholism, which claimed the lives of his three sons—one who succumbed to drinking, another who died at sea after excess, and a third who became a soldier. As he tells his story, he implores the young men to shun the temptations of alcohol, culminating in a powerful moment when one brave soldier takes a stand to reject wine in favor of pure water. The poem poignantly closes with the hopeful imagery of young men marching off to battle, armed not just with weapons, but with the protective shield of temperance instilled by the old man's prayer.
The Duchess of Dublin: A Farce
"The Duchess of Dublin: A Farce" by George M. Baker is a comedic play written in the early 1870s, likely during the Victorian era. This farce revolves around amusing misunderstandings and the pursuit of social status, showcasing themes of identity and deception in a lighthearted manner. The narrative primarily involves characters manipulating a situation to elevate the reputation of a newly practicing doctor by falsely presenting a local milliner as a high-ranking noblewoman. In the story, Dr. Adam Aconite struggles to establish his medical practice in a village resistant to trusting a newcomer. With the help of his friends, a scheme is devised to promote him by claiming that "The Duchess of Dublin" is under his care; this duchess is, in reality, Maggie Mullen, a local girl with no real noble ties. As word spreads, a flurry of patients, including wealthy and curious townsfolk, flock to the doctor, each believing they are in the presence of true nobility. The mix-ups and antics that ensue create a series of humorous moments as the characters navigate their relationships and the consequences of the ruse, ultimately leading to a playful exploration of ambition, love, and societal perceptions.
A Mysterious Disappearance: A Farce
"A Mysterious Disappearance: A Farce" by George M. Baker is a comedic play written during the late 19th century. This light-hearted work is centered around the themes of mistaken identities, romantic entanglements, and the whimsical nature of life, showcasing the humorous events that unfold from a series of misunderstandings and secrets. The narrative reveals the absurdity of love and deception, typical of Baker's playful writing style. The play unfolds in a rural setting, where the central character, Captain Boliver Bobstay, is embroiled in a comedic tale of mistaken identities and romantic deceptions. The story revolves around Bobstay's sudden marriage to a widow he believes is free, only to discover that her previous husband, Sylvester Spanker, has not actually died and is mysteriously reappearing in their lives. Alongside Bobstay, other characters, such as his friend Charles Cleverly and the lovestruck Mr. Dixon Dolby, complicate matters further with their own romantic pursuits. A series of humorous exchanges ensues as the characters navigate their relationships, leading to unexpected twists, mistaken correspondences, and ultimately to resolutions that reveal how absurd and mischievous love can be. The farce culminates joyfully, with all misunderstandings resolved, leaving the characters in a state of collective happiness.
Gentlemen of the Jury: A Farce
"Gentlemen of the Jury: A Farce" by George M. Baker is a comedic play written in the early 1870s. This farce revolves around the absurd deliberations of a jury tasked with reaching a verdict in a case concerning the defendant, Peleg Popgun, accused of attempting to defraud tax authorities through the suspicious activities in his country store. The book humorously explores the quirks and personalities of the jurors, highlighting their comedic exchanges and misunderstandings as they try to navigate their responsibilities. The play opens in a jury room where jurors with eccentric traits engage in a chaotic yet humorous debate over Popgun's guilt or innocence. As deliberations ensue, the characters alternate between earnest discussion and absurd antics, with each juror presenting comically rationalized arguments for their votes of “guilty” or “not guilty.” Amidst the confusion, a character seeks to demonstrate the true nature of the evidence – gunpowder – with a shocking practical test that leads to panic in the room. Ultimately, the jurors reach a verdict through a mixture of farcical reasoning and misunderstandings, culminating in a twist that satirizes both the legal process and human nature.
Nevada; or, The Lost Mine, A Drama in Three Acts
"Nevada; or, The Lost Mine, A Drama in Three Acts" by George M. Baker is a theatrical play written in the late 19th century. This drama revolves around themes of mining, friendship, and the complexities of human relationships in a rugged frontier setting. The main characters include Nevada, a wandering miner obsessed with a lost gold mine, and various miners and townspeople that interact with him, including Vermont, an old miner with a fatherly bond to a young girl named Moselle. At the start of the play, we are introduced to a cast of colorful characters in a mining camp. The scene opens with Silas Steele, a self-proclaimed "missionary of health," humorously detailing his struggle to promote a miracle cure called Busted's Balm while also coming into contact with Mother Merton, a motherly figure in the camp. As the plot unfolds, we learn about Nevada, a man driven mad by the loss of a rich gold mine he once discovered. The various miners converse about their lives and relationships, setting the stage for a narrative that explores themes of love, betrayal, and redemption against the backdrop of the fierce setting of a gold mining town.
Poison: A Farce
"Poison: A Farce" by George M. Baker is a comedic play written in the late 19th century. The work is a farce that explores themes of misunderstanding and mistaken identity, centering around the amusing misadventures of its characters. The setting is primarily in the breakfast room of a suburban villa, highlighting the domestic hilarities that ensue. The story revolves around Mr. Theophilus Twitters, a retired sugar merchant, who is beset by a series of comedic complications. As he prepares for a journey, he faces interference from various characters, including his daughter's suitor, Dr. Squillcox, and the mother of his late wife. Amidst the chaos of breakfast interruptions and an ominous letter warning of poison in his sugar, Twitters navigates through misunderstandings that threaten his plans and familial relationships. The characters' interactions lead to humorous situations, culminating in an outrageous resolution where mistaken identities and motives are revealed, making for a lively and entertaining performance.
The Boston Dip: A Comedy, in One Act
"The Boston Dip: A Comedy, in One Act" by George M. Baker is a comedic play written during the early 1870s. This book falls into the category of theatrical plays, specifically a one-act comedy, and it explores themes of social class, romance, and misunderstanding through its humorous dialogue and scenarios. The play reflects the societal context of the early 19th century, illustrating the dynamics surrounding social status, marriage, and the pursuit of elegance. The storyline revolves around the Mulligrub family, particularly the antics of Mrs. Hannah Mulligrub, who, while her husband is obliviously spying on her, engages a dancing master, Monsieur Adonis, to teach her the latest dance craze—the "Boston Dip." Meanwhile, the two daughters, Ida and Eva, navigate the romantic pursuits of two young men who show interest in them, adding layers of comedic confusion as mistaken identities and intentions unfold. The tension peaks when Mr. Mulligrub discovers a note that he misinterprets as a romantic liaison, leading to a series of humorous confrontations. Ultimately, the misunderstanding is cleared up, but not before a raucous display of farcical comedy leaves the audience entertained.
Summer Days
"Summer Days" by George M. Baker is a charming children's novel written in the late 19th century. This book likely explores themes of friendship, adventure, and childhood experiences during the summer season, capturing the essence of youthful days spent outdoors and the joys of nature. The story revolves around Alice Grey and her friend Susy Lee as they prepare for a summer at Sandy Shore. Their excitement grows as they anticipate playful adventures in the countryside, away from the heat of the city. However, their summer takes a turn when they encounter Sarah, a girl in distress, and her mother, facing poverty and illness. Moved by their situation, Alice and Susy decide to help them by organizing a lemonade fête to raise funds for Sarah's family. Through their compassion and determination, they learn valuable lessons about generosity, responsibility, and the importance of community support, all while enjoying the carefree adventures that summer brings.
The Merry Christmas of the Old Woman who Lived in a Shoe
"The Merry Christmas of the Old Woman who Lived in a Shoe" by George M. Baker is a holiday-themed play likely written in the late 19th century. This musical piece is intended for performance, featuring a whimsical story that revolves around the old woman and her numerous children, tackling themes of generosity and the spirit of Christmas. It draws upon familiar nursery rhyme elements, making it particularly appealing for family audiences and children. In this delightful play, the old woman struggles with poverty while caring for her many children, yearning to provide them with a memorable Christmas. Just as she despairs over her inability to afford gifts, Santa Claus, disguised as a beggar, appears at her doorstep. The children, unaware of his true identity, offer him their meager food in a show of kindness. Moved by their generosity, Santa reveals himself and rewards the children with a magical Christmas tree and presents, emphasizing the virtues of compassion and the joy of giving. This heartwarming tale captures the essence of the holiday season, highlighting that true wealth lies not in material possessions but in the warmth of love and kindness.
A Tender Attachment: A Farce
"A Tender Attachment: A Farce by George M. Baker" is a comedic play likely written in the late 19th century. This farce revolves around the misunderstandings and humorous situations that arise from parental concern over youthful romantic entanglements. The story captures the essence of farcical theatre, employing mistaken identities and witty dialogue to entertain the audience. The plot centers on Ebenezer Crotchet, a reticent father, who is determined to confront his son Horace about an alarming anonymous note suggesting that Horace has developed a "tender attachment" in a place called "Bachelors' Paradise," where he has been staying. As Ebenezer investigates this alleged relationship, he inadvertently engages with a cast of eccentric characters—including a tinker, a soldier, a sailor, and a tailor—who inadvertently complicate matters further. The farce unfolds with a mix of confusion and comedy as the true nature of Horace's activities is revealed, ultimately leading to a heartwarming resolution that bridges the generational gap between father and son.
Little Brown Jug
"Little Brown Jug" by George M. Baker is a drama written in the late 19th century. The play revolves around the lives of the Nutter family, particularly focusing on John Nutter, a shoemaker, and his tumultuous relationship with his son Will who is eager to leave for the city. As family dynamics are tested by external influences—especially from Henry Douglas, the son of a wealthy family—the narrative explores themes of temptation, loyalty, and the dangers of drinking, embodied in the titular jug that holds significant symbolic weight. The opening of "Little Brown Jug" introduces the Nutter family's shoemaking shop where John Nutter discusses the merits of hard work and traditional values against the aspirations of his son Will, who dreams of a more glamorous life in the city. The tension escalates with the arrival of various characters, including Jarius Jordan, who encourages Will's ambitions, and Ned Hartshorn, who serves as a contrast to Will's reckless desires. As the scene unfolds, family dynamics and moral dilemmas emerge with Will's struggle against his father's authority and societal temptations, establishing a foundation for the conflicts that will drive the narrative forward. Will's eventual intoxication with ambition and drink foreshadows the challenges he is likely to face as the plot progresses.
Comrades: A Drama in Three Acts
"Comrades: A Drama in Three Acts" by George M. Baker is a play written in the late 19th century. The narrative revolves around the lives of several characters, including Royal Manning, his wife May, the tramp Matt Winsor, and Marcus Graves, who faces personal challenges tied to his past. Central themes appear to include friendship, the complexity of relationships, and social class struggles. The opening of the play introduces Royal Manning and May in their comfortable home, where they engage in lighthearted banter about matrimony and past lives. Royal reflects on his days as a soldier and his camaraderie with Matt Winsor, a former comrade from the war, who enters the scene as a drunken vagabond seeking assistance. Tensions arise as Royal and May discuss Marcus Graves, a man of mystery who has captured Bessie's affections. The playful atmosphere soon becomes heavier with the introduction of themes of shame and redemption, giving a hint of the deeper conflicts that will unfold through the characters' interactions and histories.
Past Redemption: A Drama in Four Acts
"Past Redemption: A Drama in Four Acts" by George M. Baker is a theatrical play written in the late 19th century. This engaging drama unfolds through the intertwining fates of characters like Harry Maynard, a young man who leaves his pastoral life behind for the city, and Charity Goodall, who seeks to redeem the lost. The story explores themes of ambition, temptation, and the complexities of love, as it delves into the struggles of individuals facing the consequences of their choices. At the start of the play, we are introduced to a barn bustling with activity during a corn husking event, where various characters engage in light banter and flirtation. Among them are Tom Larcom, who is infatuated with Kitty Corum, and Harry Maynard, who is preparing to leave home for the city. The conversation touches on aspirations and relationships, with undertones of rivalry and longing. Meanwhile, Robert Thornton, a wealthy man with questionable intentions, looms in the background, hinting at the darker paths that lay ahead for Harry. As the act progresses, the idyllic atmosphere begins to fray, foreshadowing the challenges and moral dilemmas the characters will encounter as they navigate their fates.
Santa Claus' Frolics
"Santa Claus' Frolics" by George M. Baker is a Christmas-themed entertainments book written in the late 19th century. This piece is a theatrical play designed for children, focusing on the magical figure of Santa Claus and the joy he brings during the festive season. The book’s likely topic revolves around the excitement of Christmas Eve and the anticipation of Santa’s arrival, filled with songs and festive activities suitable for a family performance. The play depicts a cozy room where children eagerly await Santa Claus’ arrival, complete with stockings hung by the fireplace and a hidden Christmas tree. As the story unfolds, Santa Claus appears, dressed in his traditional attire, and engages with the children, delighting them with playful antics and song. He fills the stockings with gifts, showcasing various presents for each child, while conveying a sense of wonder and joy surrounding the holiday. The narrative emphasizes themes of childhood innocence, generosity, and the cherished traditions of Christmas celebrations, ultimately culminating in the revealing of the Christmas tree and the magic of the season.