
A sweeping journey begins aboard a sun‑baked Alpine train, where two friends escape the relentless heat by pulling down heavy curtains and sharing observations of rugged peaks, cascading waterfalls, and sleepy villages below. Their conversation drifts from the romance of travel to the deeper, quieter concerns that follow a wedding—how love can be stretched between a spouse and the children they hope to raise. The vivid scenery frames an early exploration of the delicate balance between duty, desire, and the inevitable compromises of married life.
Through a series of interlinked sketches, the novel unfolds a mosaic of domestic moments: lively dinners, whispered doubts, and the occasional intrusion of well‑meaning relatives. It offers both the husband’s and the wife’s viewpoints, inviting listeners to consider how societal expectations and personal longing intersect in everyday decisions. The tone is thoughtful yet accessible, making it a compelling listen for anyone curious about the timeless questions that shape partnership and family.
Language
en
Duration
~12 hours (720K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Charles Bowen from page scans provided by Google Books (University of Illinois Library)
Release date
2017-09-17
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1859–1932
A Victorian-era master of mystery, this prolific novelist helped shape popular detective fiction with twisty plots and shadowy suspects. Best known for creating a huge international sensation with The Mystery of a Hansom Cab, he went on to write well over a hundred novels.
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