Author
Alfred W. (Alfred Wilks) Drayson
1827-1901
Alfred W. (Alfred Wilks) Drayson (1827-1901) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Alfred W. (Alfred Wilks) Drayson
The Gentleman Cadet His Career and Adventures at the Royal Military Academy Woolwich
"The Gentleman Cadet" by Lt. Col. A.W. Drayson is a novel written in the late 19th century. This coming-of-age story follows the life of Robert "Bob" Shepard, a young boy who aspires to join the military academy at Woolwich, detailing his early life, challenges, and the pursuit of his ambitions. The narrative captures the rigors of military education and the social dynamics among cadets, as well as the personal growth that Bob experiences along the way. The opening of the novel introduces us to Bob's upbringing in the New Forest, Hampshire, where he recounts his childhood filled with the influence of his well-meaning but ineffectual father, and the sternness of Aunt Emma. His formative years are portrayed as tumultuous due to a lack of proper education and emotional support, setting the stage for his later struggles. As Bob encounters Howard, an officer and a source of inspiration, his passion for becoming an engineer and a gentleman cadet awakens, leading him to pursue intense academic preparation. Yet, he quickly realizes the enormity of the challenge ahead, highlighting the conflict between his aspirations and reality as he embarks on his journey at a cram school in Woolwich.
Sporting Scenes amongst the Kaffirs of South Africa
"Sporting Scenes amongst the Kaffirs of South Africa" by Captain Alfred W. Drayson is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book focuses on the author's personal experiences and observations during his time in South Africa, particularly highlighting the interactions with the Kaffir people and the wild animals of the region. Drayson's narrative likely combines elements of exploration, sport, and cultural commentary, offering insights into both the natural world and indigenous customs. The opening of the text sets the stage for Drayson's exploration by detailing his uncomfortable voyage to the Cape and initial experiences with the crew, including vibrant imagery of marine life such as porpoises and albatrosses. It showcases the rich and diverse landscapes he encounters upon disembarkation in South Africa, as well as the peculiarities of life at sea. The narrative transitions into his observations about the Kaffirs and their environment, illustrating the contrasts between civilization and the natural world, while hinting at his intent to engage in sport and hunting amidst the local flora and fauna. This beginning effectively creates an engaging atmosphere that captures the reader's interest in Drayson's adventures and the broader context of colonial South Africa.
The Young Dragoon: Every Day Life of a Soldier
"The Young Dragoon: Every Day Life of a Soldier" by A.W. Drayson is a semi-autobiographical historical account likely written in the late 19th century. The story centers on the life and experiences of a young soldier named Frederick Trenchard, who reflects on his journey from a farming background to military service. The narrative offers insights into the everyday realities of a soldier's life, shedding light on the societal perceptions of soldiers during that era. At the start of the book, Frederick Trenchard introduces himself as a soldier and shares his background as the son of a farmer from the Midlands. He reminisces about his childhood and conveys the familial and societal expectations that had once destined him for a life of farming rather than military service. His enlistment is initially met with skepticism from his family and community, but he argues for the necessity of soldiers in protecting the nation. The opening chapters depict a humorous yet poignant tale of youthful mischief and the adventures that ultimately lead him to enlist. As he navigates through his early days as a recruit, Trenchard's experiences set the stage for the trials and camaraderie inherent in military life.
Adventures of Hans Sterk: The South African Hunter and Pioneer
"Adventures of Hans Sterk: The South African Hunter and Pioneer" by Alfred W. Drayson is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The narrative follows Hans Sterk, a skilled elephant hunter, as he embarks on a perilous journey in the interior of Africa during a significant period of emigration by Dutch settlers seeking independence from colonial rule. The story is set against a backdrop of colonial conflicts and the struggles faced by the early emigrants, bringing to life themes of adventure, bravery, and the clash between cultures. At the start of the tale, the author introduces readers to the historical context of the Great Trek, where a large number of Dutch settlers from the Cape of Good Hope journey into the African wilderness in search of a new home. In the opening chapters, we meet Hans Sterk and a group of hunters as they prepare for an elephant hunting expedition. Their adventures quickly turn dangerous as they encounter lions and are reminded of the ever-present threats from indigenous tribes such as the Matabili. The narrative gives insight into Hans's character, his remarkable hunting skills, and foreshadows imminent conflicts that will shape his journey as he becomes entwined in the fate of his companions and the indigenous peoples they encounter.
The White Chief of the Caffres
"The White Chief of the Caffres" by Alfred W. Drayson is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows a young boy named Julius Peterson, who is taken from his home in Delhi, India, to England for education. However, his journey takes a dramatic turn when he becomes shipwrecked off the east coast of South Africa and is captured by the local Caffre tribe, where he eventually adapts to their way of life and embarks on adventures that challenge his courage and wit. The opening of the novel introduces Julius as a precocious boy who has been raised in a colonial setting, accustomed to a diverse culture. His pivotal journey begins when he embarks on a ship to England but faces disaster at sea, leading to a shipwreck. On a deserted shore with female companions and no adult men, they are discovered by a Caffre tribe, which has deemed his party a threat. The tension escalates as the men of the party are slaughtered during the night, leaving Julius and the women at the mercy of the tribe. This opening establishes themes of survival, cultural conflict, and the transition from a life of comfort to one filled with perilous adventure, setting the stage for Julius’s transformation within the tribe.