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Merchants -- Fiction Books
Best books
Leo Tolstoy
Master and Man
"Master and Man" by graf Leo Tolstoy is a short story written in 1895. A wealthy landowner and his peasant servant set out by sleigh through a snowstorm, racing to secure a land deal before competitors arrive. When they lose their way in a blizzard, the master's greed drives them deeper into danger. Stranded in the freezing wilderness, the two men face a long night that will test not their endurance, but the very nature of what makes a life worth living.
Hilaire Belloc
Emmanuel Burden, merchant, of Thames St., in the city of London, exporter of hardware : $b A record of his lineage, speculations, last days and death
"Emmanuel Burden" by Hilaire Belloc is a biographical account written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around Emmanuel Burden, a London merchant whose influence is depicted as significantly impactful despite his low profile. The book explores his lineage, business endeavors, philosophical views, and the events leading up to his death, emphasizing the quiet yet critical role individuals like Burden play in society. The opening of "Emmanuel Burden" introduces the life of Mr. Burden, starting with a reflection on how his contributions, though indirect, shaped social and political structures in England. The author notes that Burden was a man of considerable wealth and religious conviction, which allowed him to wield influence discreetly within various societal spheres. The text discusses Burden's lineage and his modest entrance into the mercantile world, detailing the early history of his family and their connections. It paints a picture of a man whose life is rooted in his business integrity as well as his domestic aspirations, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of his character and the circumstances surrounding his life and legacy.
Walter Scott
The Fair Maid of Perth; Or, St. Valentine's Day
"The Fair Maid of Perth; Or, St. Valentine's Day" by Walter Scott is a novel published in 1828. Set in Perth, Scotland around 1400, it follows armourer Henry Gow who interrupts the Duke of Rothesay's attempted abduction of Catharine Glover, a glovemaker's daughter. This Valentine's Day kiss draws Henry into dangerous royal intrigue and a deadly Highland feud, culminating in a historic clan battle. Scott weaves romance, political conspiracy, and medieval warfare into a tale where personal loyalty collides with the violent power struggles of medieval Scotland.
George Horace Lorimer
Letters from a Self-Made Merchant to His Son Being the Letters written by John Graham, Head of the House of Graham & Company, Pork-Packers in Chicago, familiarly known on 'Change as "Old Gorgon Graham," to his Son, Pierrepont, facetiously known to his intimates as "Piggy."
"Letters from a Self-Made Merchant to His Son" by George Horace Lorimer is a collection of letters written in the early 20th century. The correspondence is between John Graham, a successful merchant in the meatpacking industry, and his son, Pierrepont, who is attending Harvard University. Through these letters, Graham imparts wisdom on education, work ethic, and character development, reflecting on his own experiences as a self-made man. The letters provide both practical advice and personal anecdotes, illustrating the father-son dynamic and the transition between youth and adult responsibilities. At the start of the narrative, we see John Graham’s heartfelt yet humorous approach to educating his son. He encourages Pierrepont to embrace the opportunities for learning at Harvard while emphasizing that character is more important than mere academic success. Graham discusses various life lessons, touching on subjects like the importance of financial prudence, the realities of work, and the need for common sense in business. He stresses that an education should not just be about acquiring knowledge but also about learning how to apply that knowledge effectively in the real world. Throughout this initial portion, readers get a clear sense of Graham’s personality—pragmatic, candid, and ultimately invested in his son’s development into a capable adult.
E. (Eugenie) Marlitt
At the Councillor's; or, A Nameless History
"At the Councillor's; or, A Nameless History" by E. Marlitt is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story immerses readers in the complexities of familial relationships, wealth, and societal expectations, primarily revolving around the characters Councillor Römer and his estranged family members, especially the recently bereaved Kitty Mangold, the miller's granddaughter. With themes of ambition, guilt, and social position, the narrative explores how individuals navigate their intertwined fates in a context marked by intrigue and moral dilemmas. At the start of the novel, tensions are set in motion following the medical operation on the castle miller, which leads to his unexpected death shortly thereafter. As Councillor Römer grapples with the implications of the incident, suspicion arises regarding his actions during the old man's last moments. Meanwhile, Kitty returns to the mill after her grandfather's death, carrying the legacy of her family's estate. The early chapters establish the backdrop of social disparity, exemplified by the interactions between Kitty, her family, and Doctor Bruck, who provides a glimpse into the deeper emotional and ethical conflicts that will unfold as the plot develops.
E. (Eugenie) Marlitt
Im Hause des Kommerzienrates.
"Im Hause des Kommerzienrates" by E. Marlitt is a novel published in 1876. Young Käthe Mangold inherits a vast fortune from her grandfather, only to find herself under the guardianship of the ambitious Kommerzienrat Moritz Römer. As Moritz schemes to control her wealth and Flora, her sister, pursues a reluctant engagement with the doctor Käthe secretly loves, the heiress must navigate family betrayal and social ambition in 1870s Germany to secure both her inheritance and her heart.
Hilaire Belloc
The Mercy of Allah
"The Mercy of Allah" by Hilaire Belloc is a narrative work, likely composed in the early 20th century. The book tells an intriguing tale of a wealthy merchant named Mahmoud, who, despite his affluence, is portrayed as having complex perspectives on wealth, fortune, and divine providence. It appears to explore themes around the nature of riches, personal accountability, and the enigmatic workings of fate, possibly rooted in a Middle Eastern cultural context. The beginning of the narrative introduces Mahmoud, a successful merchant in Baghdad during the days of Abd-er-Rahman. As he recounts his life story to his seven nephews, he shares insights on the nature of fortune and misfortune, confessing that wealth is not easily attainable and is often dependent on "the Mercy of Allah." As he narrates, Mahmoud reflects on his humble beginnings and narrates the whims of luck that have shaped his journey, hinting at lessons learned from his experiences with greed and providence. The opening sets the stage for a series of adventures that promise to blend humor with deeper philosophical reflections on wealth and moral integrity.
John Galt
The Provost
"The Provost" by John Galt is a novel written during the early 19th century. The book explores themes of governance, community, and self-interest through the life of its main character, Mr. Pawkie, who aspires to navigate the intricacies of local politics and societal expectations in the burgh of Gudetown. The opening of the novel introduces us to the widow of a former Provost, Mrs. Pawkie, who speaks highly of her deceased husband's manuscript, which contains notes on his public life as chief magistrate. After persuading her to publish the work, the narrative shifts to Mr. Pawkie, who recounts his ambitions and the prudent behaviors that enabled him to rise in status within his community. As he embarks on his journey through political life, we see him balancing the expectations of authority with the realities of human nature and societal norms, setting the stage for a rich exploration of character and ambition in a small town.
Jules Verne
P'tit-bonhomme
"P'tit-bonhomme" by Jules Verne is a novel published in 1893. Set in 1870s Ireland, it follows an abandoned orphan exploited by harsh masters and passed between caretakers. After finding brief happiness with a farming family, P'tit-Bonhomme faces separation and must forge his own path. With growing confidence, he dreams of becoming a successful merchant and begins building a small trading business in Dublin, determined to rise above his miserable beginnings.
Charles Morris
Will Somers, the Boy Detective
"Will Somers, the Boy Detective" by Charles Morris is a fictional novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story centers around a sixteen-year-old boy named Will Somers, who, despite his ragged appearance, exhibits sharp wits and boldness as he seeks employment in a dry-goods store owned by Mr. Leonard. As he settles into his new job, he shows determination to prove his worth and navigate the challenges of the adult world, hinting at an adventurous and perhaps mischievous journey ahead. The opening of the book introduces us to Will, a confident and charismatic young boy who is in search of work. He engages Mr. Leonard, a merchant who is skeptical at first but intrigued by Will's audacity. Throughout their witty exchange, we learn about Will's rough upbringing, his experiences, and aspirations for a better life. As Will begins his job, he encounters challenges from other employees while showcasing his unique blend of street smarts and resilience. The initial chapters set the stage for a narrative filled with humor, adventure, and potential intrigue, as hints of deeper mysteries and relationships are woven into the storyline.
George Horace Lorimer
Old Gorgon Graham More Letters from a Self-Made Merchant to His Son
"Old Gorgon Graham" by George Horace Lorimer is a collection of letters written in the early 20th century. The correspondence mainly features John Graham, a successful pork packer from Chicago, as he writes to his son, Pierrepont, who is taking his first steps in the family business. The letters cover lessons in business ethics, family dynamics, and personal development, often delivered with a blend of humor and wisdom. The opening of the book sets a lively tone as John Graham addresses Pierrepont, blending paternal advice with candid observations about business and life. Graham emphasizes the importance of hard work and earning one's place in the world, cautioning against nepotism and the pitfalls of relying too heavily on family connections. As he discusses various topics—from managing responsibilities at work to navigating personal relationships—Graham's colorful anecdotes and straightforward style reveal his character as both a mentor and an industrious father, laying the groundwork for a narrative deeply entangled with practical wisdom that resonates through the ages.
Jules Verne
Der Findling. Erster Band.
"Der Findling. Erster Band." by Jules Verne is a novel published in 1893. Set in late 19th-century Ireland, it follows an abandoned child called Findling through a harsh childhood marked by poverty and exploitation. From brutal caretakers to cruel orphanages, he endures suffering while seeking human kindness. Along his journey, he finds brief moments of warmth with compassionate souls and discovers friendship amid hardship. This tale explores survival, resilience, and the search for belonging in an unforgiving world.
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