Author
Henry Morford
1823-1881
Henry Morford (1823-1881) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Henry Morford
Shoulder-Straps: A Novel of New York and the Army, 1862
"Shoulder-Straps: A Novel of New York and the Army, 1862" by Henry Morford is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The story is set during the American Civil War and follows the lives of various characters in New York as they navigate the intricacies of friendship, love, and conflict. The main characters introduced in the opening chapters are Walter Lane Harding, a reserved merchant, and Tom Leslie, a free-spirited journalist, as they encounter the complexities of society amidst the backdrop of war. The opening of the novel sets a vivid scene as Harding and Leslie exit a theater and witness a disturbing incident involving a woman from the city's underbelly and a brutish man. This incident acts as a catalyst for Harding to reflect on the moral dilemmas of their time, while also establishing Leslie's previous acquaintance with Dexter Ralston, a mysterious figure whose allegiances remain uncertain. As the story unfolds, themes of honor, duty, and the personal impact of the Civil War begin to emerge, showing how the characters' lives interconnect amid the turmoil of a nation in conflict.
The Coward: A Novel of Society and the Field in 1863
"The Coward: A Novel of Society and the Field in 1863" by Henry Morford is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The story is set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, particularly around the time leading up to the Battle of Gettysburg. The narrative focuses on the emotional and moral struggles of Carlton Brand, a man grappling with cowardice and societal expectations, alongside the experiences of two prominent young women in his life, Margaret Hayley and Elsie Brand. At the start of the book, readers are introduced to a serene suburban setting in West Philadelphia, where the two young women share a moment of closeness on a sunny June morning. Their dialogue reveals deep themes of love, courage, and the expectation of manhood in the face of war. A powerful contrast emerges through their reflections on Carlton, who has not enlisted, with Margaret expressing her contempt for his perceived cowardice, while Elsie is more sympathetic. As the conversation unfolds, the tension around the expectations of bravery and personal integrity becomes palpable, foreshadowing the challenges and emotional turmoil each character will face as the war looms closer, particularly for Carlton, who is later revealed to struggle with his own sense of honor and self-worth. The opening sets the stage for a dramatic exploration of courage, love, and the societal pressures faced by individuals in tumultuous times.
Red-Tape and Pigeon-Hole Generals As Seen From the Ranks During a Campaign in the Army of the Potomac
"Red-Tape and Pigeon-Hole Generals" by Morford, Armstrong, and Frick is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The work captures the experiences of a citizen-soldier in the Army of the Potomac during the American Civil War, shedding light on the challenges faced by soldiers due to bureaucratic inefficiencies and the ineptitude of certain military leaders. The narrative is likely to resonate with readers interested in military history and the human experiences behind grand historical events. The opening portion of the book introduces the protagonist, a soldier reflecting on the arrival of their new division general during their march near Frederick City, Maryland. Through the eyes of the Irish Corporal, Terence McCarty, we witness a blend of humor and camaraderie among the ranks as they discuss the peculiarities of their commander and share memories of past campaigns. The narrative lays the groundwork for exploring the themes of military leadership, the foibles of command, and the daily struggles of soldiers as they recount their journey toward the battles of Antietam and beyond. The preface underscores a collective desire for duty and reform, setting the tone for the ensuing critiques of military practices and the importance of soldiers’ voices.