Author
Silas K. (Silas Kitto) Hocking
1850-1935
Silas K. (Silas Kitto) Hocking (1850-1935) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Silas K. (Silas Kitto) Hocking
A Gamble with Life
"A Gamble with Life" by Silas K. Hocking is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Rufus Sterne, a man who has entered into a risky financial arrangement with his lawyer, Felix Muller, which hinges on the success of a personal invention. The book explores themes of ambition, the value of life, and moral dilemmas, as Rufus grapples with the implications of his choices. The beginning of the novel introduces Rufus and his bold proposal to Felix, wherein he offers the promise of his life insurance payout as collateral for a loan to support his invention. As the plot unfolds, Rufus's confidence in his success is juxtaposed with existential thoughts about life and death. The narrative further complicates when Rufus encounters a mysterious young woman, Madeline Grover, who captivates him. Their paths dramatically intersect when she finds herself in danger on the cliffs, prompting Rufus to confront his philosophical beliefs about life while risking his own to save her. The tension builds around themes of courage, sacrifice, and the unpredictability of outcomes as the tide begins to rise against Rufus's desperation.
Her Benny: A Story of Street Life
"Her Benny: A Story of Street Life" by Silas K. Hocking is a novel first published in 1879. Set in the slums of Victorian Liverpool, it follows young Benny Bates and his frail sister Nelly as they escape their violent father and struggle to survive on the streets. Aided by kind friends, the siblings learn to lead Christian lives while facing poverty, loss, and false accusations. This "waif story" became hugely successful, selling over a million copies and establishing Hocking's reputation as a writer of improving fiction.
The Squire's Daughter
"The Squire's Daughter" by Silas K. Hocking is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story focuses on the clash of social classes, exploring themes of pride, responsibility, and unintentional consequences through the interactions between Ralph Penlogan, a young man of the lower class, and Dorothy Hamblyn, the imperious daughter of a squire. The narrative carries an undercurrent of social critique, particularly regarding the rigid class structures of the time and their impact on personal relationships and individual lives. At the start of the novel, the dynamic between Ralph and Dorothy is set against a backdrop of class tension and youthful impulsiveness. Their first encounter is marked by Dorothy's commanding tone as she orders Ralph to open a gate, a demand he defies out of pride. This act of insubordination sparks a conflict that leads to a tragic accident when Dorothy's horse throws her while trying to leap the gate. Impelled by his earlier refusal, Ralph feels an overwhelming mix of guilt and concern for her well-being as he rushes to help her. The opening chapters establish a rich foundation for the exploration of their characters and the socio-economic forces that shape their lives.