John Hartley
Seets i' Paris
Sammywell Grimes's trip with his old chum Billy Baccus, his opinion o' th' French, and th' French opinion o' th' exhibition he made ov hissen
"Seets i' Paris" by John Hartley is a humorous novel set in the late 19th century that follows the travels of the main character, Sammywell Grimes, and his friend Billy Baccus as they embark on a trip to Paris. The book offers a satirical glimpse into their experiences and misadventures in the French capital, highlighting their distinct Yorkshire dialect and perspective. Through their journey, the story explores themes of culture shock, camaraderie, and the contrast between English and French societies. The opening of the novel introduces Sammywell Grimes as he reluctantly decides to recount his trip to Paris, primarily due to the presence of his companion, Billy, who has his own struggles and health issues. Their conversation showcases their contrasting views, as Billy is skeptical of the trip and expresses concerns about his health, while Sammywell is eager to experience the wonders of Paris. As the two friends set off, Sammywell reflects on their relationship, local critiques of Parisian culture, and the amusing banter between them, establishing a comedic tone for the journey ahead. The opening establishes a foundation for both character development and comedic mischief, inviting readers to join their escapades.