Alone in London

  

Alone in London

by Sarah Smith (1869)

as Hesba Stretton

  Years before, in a fit of anger, James Oliver sent his daughter from his arms. Since that day, he has bitterly regretted his words and actions, but has sought solace in a relationship with his Master, the Lord Jesus Christ. Now elderly, he operates a small newspaper shop deep in the dirt and darkness of London. Then, one evening, a small girl is left at his shop. A letter from his daughter, Susan, introduces the child, Dolly, to her "gan-pa". Dolly soon steals her grand-pa's heart, and he grows to love her more and more each day as they await the return of her parents.

 Tony has lived on the streets almost as long as he can remember--he knows their dangers. When he sees a woman leave a little girl at a shop, he lingers to keep watch over her. Strangely drawn to the sweet child, he regularly helps the old man, who teaches him about "The Master". Tony, however, prefers to be his own master, although he is very grateful for Mr. Oliver's kindness. But what will happen when troubles arise for Tony and those he loves? 

Character Lessons:

Charity, Compassion, Home Missions

Elements for Parental Consideration:

"Queer" = odd; "gay" = happy, or brightly-colored; Mr. Oliver smokes a pipe regularly; Susan's husband drinks, but has promised to give it up; mentions of pickpockets and fighting; brief mention that a rock "in olden times served as an altar to the gods of fire".

Spoiler: Dolly falls ill and dies.

                                                                

This title is available for free:

In multiple formats: gutenberg.org

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