Publisher's Synopsis
The Paying Guest is a novel written by George Gissing, first published in 1895. The story is set in London and revolves around the lives of the Barfoot sisters, who are struggling to make ends meet after the death of their father. They decide to take in a paying guest, a young man named Leonard, in order to supplement their income. As the story progresses, Leonard becomes romantically involved with one of the sisters, Monica, and their relationship becomes increasingly complicated. Meanwhile, the other sister, Virginia, struggles with her own desires and the societal expectations placed upon her as an unmarried woman.The novel explores themes of love, class, and gender roles in Victorian society. Gissing's writing is known for its realism and attention to detail, and The Paying Guest is no exception. The characters are complex and well-developed, and the plot is full of twists and turns that keep the reader engaged until the very end.Overall, The Paying Guest is a thought-provoking and engaging novel that offers a glimpse into the social and cultural norms of Victorian England. It is a must-read for fans of classic literature and anyone interested in the history of the period.At breakfast her behaviour was marked with excessive decorum. To the ordinary civilities of her host and hostess she replied softly, modestly, in the manner of a very young and timid girl; save when addressed, she kept silence, and sat with head inclined; a virginal freshness breathed about her; she ate very little, and that without her usual gusto, but rather as if performing a dainty ceremony. Her eyes never moved in Mumford's direction.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.