
"HE PLACED THE CHILD UPON THE CHEST, AND HELD HIM THERE THAT HE MIGHT NOT FALL OFF." p. 38.
BY - J. MACDONALD OXLEY,
ILLUSTRATED BY W. RAINEY, R.I.
TORONTO: THE MUSSON BOOK COMPANY, LIMITED. 1902
DONALBLANE OF DARIEN.
CHAPTER I. - BY WAY OF BEGINNING.
CHAPTER II. - DONALBLANE CARRIES HIS POINT.
CHAPTER III. - OFF TO DARIEN.
CHAPTER IV. - A RESCUE AND A RETREAT.
CHAPTER V. - ACROSS THE ATLANTIC.
Set against the turbulent close of the seventeenth century, the story follows a determined Scottish trader who, after helping shape Britain’s financial world, turns his sights to a daring new venture. He teams with visionary financiers to challenge the monopolies of the East India and African Companies, seeking a free‑trade route through the narrow isthmus that links the Atlantic and Pacific. The narrative weaves vivid descriptions of politics, ambition, and the raw, untamed lands of Darien, drawing listeners into the excitement of a bold‑faced expedition.
Through rugged seas and hostile jungles, the protagonist and his companions confront rival powers, strange creatures, and the endless challenge of survival. The early chapters balance historical detail with personal stakes, especially as a father‑like figure steadies a child on his chest, symbolizing hope amid danger. Listeners will be carried along on a tide of adventure, intrigue, and the relentless drive to reshape commerce and destiny.
Language
en
Duration
~1 hours (113K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Al Haines
Release date
Sep 14, 2010
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
1855–1907
A prolific Canadian storyteller of adventure fiction for young readers, he wrote tales of wilderness travel, sea danger, and historical conflict that were especially popular in his own time. Trained in law but drawn to writing, he built a career that linked Nova Scotia roots with a wider national audience.
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