
audiobook
A breezy September morning finds a wiry teenage lad wandering the moss‑clad slopes of the Southwolds, basket in hand, hunting for chanterelle mushrooms. He soon bumps into a trio of well‑dressed schoolboys from the local rectory, and a playful scuffle erupts over the prized fungi, revealing his quick reflexes and good‑natured humor. Their banter, full of teasing insults and earnest offers of breakfast, paints a vivid picture of rural life, class distinctions, and the simple pleasures of a sunny forest.
As the boys untangle themselves, the newcomer’s calm confidence begins to draw curiosity and grudging respect from his peers. Through this lively encounter, listeners are introduced to a world where nature’s beauty, youthful rivalry, and the promise of adventure intertwine, setting the stage for the boy’s larger journey beyond the woods.
Language
en
Duration
~8 hours (515K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Nick Hodson of London, England
Release date
2007-05-08
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1831–1909
Best known for lively adventure stories and school tales, this Victorian writer also worked as a journalist, editor, and teacher. His books were especially popular with younger readers, blending brisk action with a strong sense of place and character.
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