This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1907. Excerpt: ... BABY SYLVESTER It was at a little mining camp in the California Sierras that he first dawned upon me in all his grotesque sweetness. I had arrived early in the morning, but not in time to intercept the friend who was the object of my visit. He had gone "prospecting,"--so they told me on the river, --and would not probably return until late in the afternoon. They could not say what direction he had taken; they could not suggest that I would be likely to find him if I followed. But it was the general opinion that I had better wait. I looked around me. I was standing upon the bank of the river; and, apparently, the only other human beings in the world were my interlocutors, who were even then just disappearing from my horizon down the steep bank toward the river's dry bed. I approached the edge of the bank. Where could I wait? Oh, anywhere; down with them on the river-bar, where they were working, if I liked! Or I could make myself at home in any of those cabins that I found lying round loose. Or, perhaps it would be cooler and pleasanter for me in my friend's cabin on the hill. Did I see those three large sugarpines? And, a little to the right, a canvas roof and chimney over the bushes? Well that was my friend's--that was Dick Sylvester's cabin. I could stake my horse in that little hollow, and just hang round there till he came. I would find some books in the shanty; I could amuse myself with them. Or I could play with the baby. Do what? But they had already gone. I leaned over the bank and called after their vanishing figures, --"What did you say I could do?" The answer floated slowly up on the hot sluggish air, --"Pla-a-y with the ba-by." The lazy echoes took it up and tossed it languidly from hill to hill, until Bald Mountain opposite made some incoherent ...

Bret Harte's 'The Queen of the Pirate Isle' is a captivating children's story set in a remote English village, featuring beautifully descriptive prose and engaging storytelling. The book follows the adventures of two orphaned children who stumble upon a hidden pirate treasure, leading them on a thrilling journey of discovery and friendship. Harte's writing style is playful and imaginative, making the story come alive with vivid details and colorful characters, making it a delightful read for both young readers and adults alike. This book is a timeless classic that showcases Harte's talent for storytelling and his ability to transport readers to a world of magic and wonder. 'The Queen of the Pirate Isle' is a must-read for anyone looking for a charming and enchanting tale that will leave you spellbound from beginning to end.