Paul Faber, Surgeon

by George MacDonald

English, published in 1879

170,745 words (465 pages)

Category: Fiction

Excerpt

for a moment doubt the faith of Wingfold; but a man must have some respect for appearances: appearances were facts as well as realities were facts. An honest man must not keep company with a thief, if he would escape the judgment of being of thievish kind. Something must be done; probably something said would be enough, and the rector was now on his way to say it.

CHAPTER II

THE MINISTER'S DOOR.

Every body knew Mr. Faber, whether he rode Ruber or Niger--Rubber and Nigger, his groom called them--and many were the greetings that met him as he passed along Pine Street, for, despite the brand of his atheism, he was popular. The few ladies out shopping bowed graciously, for both his manners and person were pleasing, and his professional attentions were unexceptionable. When he dropped into a quick walk, to let Ruber cool a little ere he reached his stall, he was several times accosted and detained. The last who addressed him was Mr. Drew, the principal draper of the t

ReviewsAdd a review for this title.

2007.08.24
Sandra

Really good book. MacDonald was a Scottish 19th century writer, his books are usually about families living in Scotland. This one is a love-story, but other characters and incidents are recorded. I like his unhurried prose, and he also writes some poetry in his books, usually as songs or poems in the characters' words.

MacDonald was a Christian minister, and his books can be read by Christians without worry about content and language. He describes the growth of the spirit and spiritual experience of Paul Faber and others throughout the book.

He reproduces the Scots dialect, some readers may find it difficult if English is not their first language.

I gave it 4 out of 5 because the language is heavy going at times. This is a book which needs to be read more than once to get the most out of it.