Dr. Stearns's Tour from London to Paris

An American philosopher sets out from London in the summer of 1790, hitching a stagecoach across the Channel to the turbulent heart of France. His journal begins with the practicalities of travel—ticket prices, porters’ fees, and the bustling atmosphere at Dover and Calais—while noting the curious mix of gentlemen who greet him upon arrival. Early impressions of Parisian streets, bustling markets, and the stark contrast between French beggars and the genteel crowd frame his outsider’s view.

The narrative quickly expands into a vivid portrait of a nation in upheaval. Detailed observations cover everything from everyday customs, agriculture, and commerce to the newly emerging political structures of the National Assembly and the dramatic fall of the Bastille. Interwoven with these reports are the author’s philosophical and moral reflections, offering a measured critique of the forces driving the Revolution and the broader implications for liberty and human happiness. Listeners will find a thoughtful blend of travel memoir and Enlightenment commentary, capturing a pivotal moment in European history.