Author
Thomas A. (Thomas Allibone) Janvier
1849-1913
Thomas A. (Thomas Allibone) Janvier (1849-1913) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Thomas A. (Thomas Allibone) Janvier
Legends of the City of Mexico
"Legends of the City of Mexico" by Thomas A. Janvier is a collection of folk tales written in the early 20th century. The book presents a series of legends that reflect the rich cultural heritage, history, and traditions surrounding the city of Mexico. Each story encapsulates a unique aspect of life in Mexico, interweaving elements of morality, the supernatural, and historical circumstances. The opening of the book introduces the premise of its collection, emphasizing that these legends are genuine folk narratives passed down through generations. Janvier explains his dedication to preserving these stories, highlighting their origins in both fact and imagination, and the significance they have in reflecting the societal beliefs and customs of the time. He also shares personal anecdotes about the sources from which he gathered these tales, including the insights provided by local women steeped in oral tradition. This establishes not only the authenticity of the legends but also the cultural context that gives them life.
Henry Hudson: A Brief Statement of His Aims and His Achievements
"HENRY HUDSON: A BRIEF STATEMENT OF HIS AIMS AND HIS ACHIEVEMENTS" by Thomas A. Janvier is a historical account likely written in the early 20th century. The work centers on the life and explorations of the notable navigator Henry Hudson, detailing his ambitions, accomplishments, and the circumstances surrounding his demise at the hands of his mutinous crew. Through newly uncovered documents, the author aims to shed light on both Hudson's discoveries and the events leading to his tragic end. At the start of the narrative, the author introduces the pivotal moment in Hudson's career when he veered off course from his ordered journey, leading to the discovery of what is now known as the Hudson River. The text reflects on Hudson's seemingly predestined path as he engaged in notable voyages commissioned by both the English and Dutch maritime companies. Janvier also presents concerns over the limited knowledge regarding Hudson's early life and the treacherous final voyage, during which mutiny led to his abandonment in Hudson Bay. The opening encapsulates Hudson's significance in maritime history while pondering the impact of fate on his life and achievements.
In Great Waters: Four Stories
"In Great Waters: Four Stories" by Thomas A. Janvier is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The stories are set against vivid maritime backdrops, exploring themes of love, loss, and the human spirit's struggle against nature. The opening story, "The Wrath of the Zuyder Zee," introduces Old Jaap Visser, a troubled man grappling with the haunting memories of a tragic storm that claimed his family, which sets the stage for a tale steeped in folklore and the consequences of a man's curse. The opening of the narrative paints a portrait of Marken, where Old Jaap is regarded with a mix of fear and pity by the locals due to his perceived madness stemming from a past tragedy. As fishermen live their lives, Jaap's dark and melancholic nature comes into focus, especially when his son-in-law, Krelis Kess, provokes him. In a moment of rage, Jaap curses Krelis, foretelling dire consequences. The tension builds as the local belief in Jaap's curse takes shape, leading to the exploration of themes related to fate and the wrath of nature, all of which interweaves a compelling tale of human emotion alongside the majestic and terrifying sea.
The Aztec Treasure-House
"The Aztec Treasure-House" by Thomas A. Janvier is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around an archaeologist and scholar who embarks on an adventurous quest in Mexico, seeking to uncover the secrets of a civilization long lost to history. With the help of a dedicated monk named Fray Antonio and a young Indian boy named Pablo, the protagonist seeks to locate a hidden treasure that holds the key to understanding Aztec heritage. At the start of the novel, we meet the narrator, who reflects on his scholarly pursuits before transitioning into an action-packed journey through Mexico. He arrives in Morelia, where he forms a partnership with Fray Antonio, who has a deep understanding of the local indigenous cultures. Together, they learn of a hidden city named Culhuacan, filled with untold treasures and guarded by a legacy of ancestral secrets. The detailed opening chapters not only introduce the key characters and their motivations but also set the stage for a thrilling exploration of a civilization that defied the forces of colonization.
The Christmas Kalends of Provence And Some Other Provençal Festivals
"The Christmas Kalends of Provence" by Thomas A. Janvier is a collection of festive narratives detailing the Christmas traditions and celebrations in the Provençal region of France, written in the early 20th century. The work vividly explores various cultural rituals, customs, and the warm interactions among characters, primarily set against the picturesque backdrop of Provence during the holiday season. The narrative is infused with local lore, revealing how the past intertwines with the present through the region's unique celebrations. At the start of the narrative, the author transports readers to Provence, where he shares an intimate account of his arrival at the home of Monsieur de Vièlmur, an old-school country gentleman dedicated to preserving traditional Provençal customs. The protagonist is welcomed warmly to experience the elaborate Christmas preparations, which begin with the planting of Saint Barbara's grain—a tradition believed to foretell the upcoming harvest. As the festivities unfold, readers are introduced to various characters, including Misè Fougueiroun, the housekeeper, and the vibrant family dynamics that highlight the joy and communal spirit surrounding the upcoming celebrations, setting the stage for the rich exploration of Provençal culture during Christmas.
A Romance of Tompkins Square 1891
"A Romance of Tompkins Square" by Thomas A. Janvier is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book presents a touching story of ambition, love, and redemption set against the backdrop of a New York neighborhood's vibrant life. The narrative revolves primarily around Gottlieb Brekel, a German baker yearning to recreate the perfect lebkuchen, a type of German gingerbread, while navigating personal tragedy and familial bonds. The plot follows Gottlieb as he grapples with the loss of his wife and the challenge of raising his daughter, Minna, while pursuing his dream of baking exceptional lebkuchen. Over the years, his attempts yield little success, leading him to an act of desperation—stealing a recipe from his talented assistant, Hans. This act of betrayal triggers a series of events that ultimately confront him with his actions and forces him to seek redemption. As the narrative unfolds, it explores themes of love, guilt, and the healing power of family, culminating in a resolution that emphasizes the importance of integrity and the connections between the characters. The book is rich with the emotional nuances of immigrant life and the struggles of the human spirit.
The Uncle of an Angel 1891
"The Uncle of an Angel" by Thomas A. Janvier is a novel written in the late 19th century. This comedic narrative explores the complexities of familial relationships, particularly focusing on the unexpected guardianship of the protagonist, Mr. Hutchinson Port, over his charming yet high-spirited niece, Dorothy. Central to the book is the clash between Mr. Port’s rigid, health-conscious lifestyle and Dorothy's lively desire for adventure and social excitement. In the story, Mr. Port, a somewhat bilious and proper Philadelphian, finds himself reluctantly responsible for his niece after the death of her mother. The novel follows their journey through various American vacation spots, notably Saratoga and Narragansett Pier, as Dorothy attempts to introduce spontaneity into her uncle's overly structured life. Their dynamic is both humorous and poignant as Dorothy employs her charm and cleverness to navigate her uncle's conventions and, ultimately, assert herself against his authority. The unfolding story reveals the tensions between generational expectations, the pursuit of personal happiness, and the struggle for autonomy, culminating in Dorothy's clever maneuvering to achieve her desires and Mr. Port’s reluctant acceptance of her emerging independence.
Santa Fé's Partner Being Some Memorials of Events in a New-Mexican Track-end Town
"Santa Fé's Partner" by Thomas A. Janvier is a work of fiction written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the rugged landscapes of New Mexico, primarily focusing on the rough town of Palomitas during the expansion of the railroad. The tale revolves around colorful characters such as the witty Sage-Brush Hen and the cunning Santa Fé Charley, who engage in various antics amid the lawlessness and disorder that characterize life in this frontier town. At the start of the novel, the narrator shares observations about the people of the Western territories, asserting that they are not as noble as the story-books depict. He describes Palomitas, a makeshift town on the verge of Americanization, populated mainly by Mexicans and a few white settlers, and filled with saloons and dance halls. The narrator's account introduces key figures, such as Santa Fé Charley, a smooth-talking card shark in preacher's clothes, and the Sage-Brush Hen, a lively woman known for her mischief. The opening sets a humorous and chaotic tone, hinting at the comedic schemes and colorful escapades that will unfold in Palomitas.
An Idyl of the East Side 1891
"An Idyl of the East Side" by Thomas A. Janvier is a poignant narrative that embodies the immigrant experience, showcasing themes of love, loss, and resilience. This book is a work of fiction likely written in the late 19th century. It tells the story of Andreas Stoffel, a canary-bird dealer originally from Germany, who migrates to America with dreams of reunion with his childhood love, Christine, only to grapple with the heartbreaking reality of her life choices. The plot unfolds as Andreas arrives in New York, only to learn that Christine has married another man, which shatters his hopes. Despite the heartbreak, he finds solace in taking care of his canaries and later becomes a father figure to Christine's daughter, Roschen, after Christine's untimely death. The narrative beautifully contrasts Andreas's profound love for Christine and the nurturing bond he builds with Roschen. As Roschen grows up, her own romance blossoms, leading to a pivotal moment where Andreas must reconcile his past feelings with the happiness of his adopted daughter. The story culminates in a bittersweet conclusion that reflects on life's cycles of joy and sorrow, encapsulated in the rich musicality of the canaries that Andreas cherishes.
In the Sargasso Sea A Novel
"In the Sargasso Sea" by Thomas A. Janvier is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows Roger Stetworth, a young mechanical engineer who embarks on a precarious voyage from New York to the West African coast aboard the brig "Golden Hind". Stetworth's ambitions and naiveté lead him into a world filled with danger, murky trade practices, and moral dilemmas surrounding the slave trade as he navigates his new environment. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Roger Stetworth as he arranges his passage to Loango with Captain Luke Chilton. Initially, he is excited about his journey and stores away skepticism about the captain’s true character. However, his doubts begin to creep in when he witnesses the ship poorly laden with questionable cargo, and learns about the prevalence of slavery in the West African trade. As he grapples with moral complexities and the dynamics of ship life, his situation takes a dark turn following a violent confrontation with the crew that leaves him shipwrecked. The opening chapters establish Stetworth's character, his naive enthusiasm for adventure, and the harrowing circumstances that will soon envelop him amidst the ominous backdrop of the Sargasso Sea.
A Border Ruffian 1891
"A Border Ruffian" by Thomas A. Janvier is a fictional narrative written in the late 19th century. This book presents an adventurous tale that unfolds in New Mexico, focusing on the themes of social propriety and the juxtaposition of genteel society against the backdrop of frontier life. The storyline revolves around characters who are faced with encounters that blend the dangers of the Wild West with the more refined circumstances of their upbringing. The story begins with Grace Winthrop, a young woman from Boston, embarking on a journey to New Mexico with her relatives, only to find herself in a precarious situation involving a self-proclaimed desperado on the train. As tensions rise, it becomes clear that this rugged figure is not merely an outlaw but ultimately comes to Grace's aid when a commercial traveler makes a presumptuous attempt to flirt with her. After the unexpected intervention and some comedic chaos, Grace’s perception of desperados shifts dramatically. The narrative later transitions to a dinner party hosted by Mrs. Rittenhouse Smith in Philadelphia, where Grace encounters the same man—now revealed as Van Ruyter Livingstone—under surprising and pleasant circumstances. Their interactions illuminate deeper themes of identity, recognizing worth beyond appearances, and the challenge of social expectations versus authentic connection.
For The Honor Of France 1891
"For The Honor Of France" by Thomas A. Janvier is a historical short story written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers around the experiences of a brave French soldier during the Crimean War and explores themes of valor and sacrifice. The story unfolds through the lens of an old veteran recounting his wartime exploits, shedding light on the camaraderie and challenges faced by soldiers. The plot revolves around Private Labonne, who finds himself in a critical situation while on picket duty in the Carenage Ravine. When he sees Russian forces preparing to attack, he makes a split-second decision to spike the enemy's guns to protect his regiment. Despite facing overwhelming odds and nearly being killed, his bravery earns him the recognition of the Emperor, who promotes him to the rank of Major and awards him a cross for his valor. The story not only highlights Labonne's fearless actions but also emphasizes the honor associated with serving one’s country, creating a poignant reflection on the costs of war and the heroic spirit of soldiers.
Our Pirate Hoard 1891
"Our Pirate Hoard" by Thomas A. Janvier is a humorous novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a family legacy of a pirate ancestor, whose rumored hidden treasure instills hope and adventure in the hearts of his descendants. The narrative captures a blend of lighthearted comedy and the quest for fortune, as the main character embarks on a journey to uncover the mystery left behind by his great-great-great-uncle. The plot follows the protagonist as he marries Susan and decides to move to Lewes to investigate the legend of his ancestor's buried treasure. With the help of Old Jacob and his cousin Gregory, they set out to locate the anchorage of the pirate's ship, the "Martha Ann". As misadventures unfold and the search yields more questions than answers, the story takes a surprising turn at the end. In a comedic twist, it is revealed that the true family treasure is not gold or silver, but a thoughtful legacy from Gregory, who has instead used his fortune to better the lives of others while secretly ensuring that Susan and her husband benefit from it, showcasing the true meaning of wealth.
A Temporary Dead-Lock 1891
"A Temporary Dead-Lock" by Thomas A. Janvier is a novel written in the early 1890s. This book explores the intricacies of relationships and misunderstandings in a domestic setting, focusing on the lives of a clergyman and his wife as they navigate a series of miscommunications while he is abroad. The story emphasizes themes of love, anxiety, and the humorous aspects of human errors. The narrative primarily revolves around the Rev. Clement Markham and his wife Mrs. Margaret Markham. As Clement travels to England for a break from his parish duties, their communications become fraught with misunderstandings leading them to believe they have lost each other. Amidst their attempts to reunite, the couple experiences a mix of anxiety and absurdity, engaging the reader in their troubles and the comedic elements that arise from their situation. Ultimately, the tale resolves with their reunion, followed by a reflection on the nature of errors and human connections, all underscored by the warmth of their love and the complexities of life.