
E-text prepared by Bruce Albrecht, Chuck Greif,
PAUL PATOFF
F. MARION CRAWFORD
PAUL PATOFF.
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A reflective narrator begins a tale at the request of a dear friend, promising a story that will not disappoint. He sets the scene in a dream‑like valley where warm southern breezes mingle with distant rain, and the scents of Persia and the distant dunes of Baghdad linger in the air. The opening paints a vivid, almost lyrical landscape, hinting at an adventure that will carry the listener from the fragrant gardens of youth toward harsher, uncharted territories.
The wind itself becomes a mysterious voice, delivering cryptic warnings about the passage of time, the weight of memory, and the inevitability of aging. As the narrator opens his terrace to this ancient messenger, he is drawn into a contemplation of strength, sorrow, and the fragile balance between hope and fate. This thoughtful beginning invites listeners to follow a journey that blends exotic travel with deep, philosophical musings, promising a rich and introspective experience.
Language
en
Duration
~14 hours (850K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2007-10-03
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
Subjects

1854–1909
An American novelist born in Italy, he became one of the late 19th century’s most popular storytellers, known for vivid settings, fast-moving plots, and memorable supernatural tales. His fiction ranges from society novels and historical romances to ghost stories that still attract readers today.
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