Newton Crosland
The Young Lord, and Other Tales; to which is added Victorine Durocher
"The Young Lord, and Other Tales; to which is added Victorine Durocher" by Mrs. Newton Crosland and Mrs. Sherwood is a collection of moral tales written in the mid-19th century. The stories focus on themes of virtue, morality, and the consequences of one's choices, emphasizing the importance of selflessness and kindness. The protagonist of the first tale, "The Young Lord," is Charles Sidney, a selfish boy who inherits a title and wealth but struggles with the responsibilities that come with it. At the start of the collection, we are introduced to Charles Sidney, a young boy characterized by his avarice and selfishness, which deeply concerns his mother. Despite the death of his benevolent elder brother, Frank, and the subsequent inheritance that should uplift his spirits, Charles remains preoccupied with his own financial hoarding. The narrative then leads to a series of events, including the tragic deaths of relatives, which transform Charles into Lord Sereton, ultimately revealing his inner turmoil and introspection during a life-altering accident. As the story unfolds, themes of remorse and the possibility of redemption emerge, foreshadowing a moral reckoning for Charles. The opening sets the stage for a rich exploration of character and moral development throughout the collection.