Anonymous (66)

This is a reprint of a book originally published in 1862.

Railways were dangerous, confusing and carried a variety of hazards for the unwary traveller. This volume, written primarily for the middle classes, features advice on all topics of use to one who would take a journey by rail. Remember that "a person in a railway carriage may be likened to a prisoner of state, who is permitted to indulge in any relaxation and amusement to while away the time, but is denied that essential ingredient to show more human happiness, personal liberty".

Written in typically Victorian convolutions, the book nevertheless contains a great deal of good sense. "The proper place for the head is inside, not outside, the carriage, and so long as it is kept there, the chances are that it will remain whole." Many travellers today, whether on a train or plane, will find invaluable the advice on dealing with the "inquisitive passenger, who wishes to know more respecting yourself than you care to reveal to a stranger". show less

This is a rather odd book, a reprint supposedly first published by Charles Carrington in Paris around 1899. Its sensational title is justified by the main story presented, which is an awkwardly constructed gothic novel in which a man, Brandon, gives in incontinently to the temptation offered by a female train passenger, Mrs Sinclair, and lives to regret his folly. As a result of his actions, the young woman is set upon and caned (in the traditional location) by a group of men, one a show more relative. Part of the story as presented takes the form of a description of a Boer War battle, in which Brandon is present at the death of a comrade, who happens to be married to Mrs Sinclair. Shades of 'La Forza del Destino'! It's more gothic than erotic, but an interesting yarn from the Carrington stable which devotees will find entertaining. show less