Publisher's Synopsis
Seven stories with the usual "punch" of the writer: The Strength of the Strong; South of the Slot; The Unparalleled Invasion; The Enemy of All the World; The Dream of Debs; The Sea Farmer; Samuel. The last two are stories of Island McGill off the northeast coast of Ireland "where fathers and mothers are revered and obeyed as in few other places In this modern world." An idea wholly new to the short story is found in "Samuel." A mother gives her firstborn a name ill-omened in her family. The child dies. Then, doggedly, she gives the same name in turn to three other sons, eacH of whom suffers the fate of the first. In the face of her troubles the mother's courage never flinches.
"'Have you any regrets, Margaret Henan?' I asked, suddenly and without forethought.
She studied me a moment.
"'Ay, thot I no ha' borne another son.'
"'And you would...?' I faltered.
"'Ay, thot I would.' she answered. 'Ut would ha' been bus name.'"
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A Noteworthy collection of short stories.
