Moll Davis A Comedy

Bernard Capes

2023년 2월 · Otbebookpublishing

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Excerpt: "Somewhere about the western angle now formed by the junction of Oxford Street and the Charing Cross Road, there stood in the year 1661 "The Mischief" Inn. It was a substantial building, consisting of two gabled sections, divided by a third and wider having a pent-roof, and forming with the others a deep recess, in whose ground quarters was plentiful accommodation for the stabling of horses. At the level of the first story ran a railed wooden balcony, common to all the bedrooms behind; and in the yard below were rough benches and trestle-tables disposed about, where customers might forgather to discuss, over their pipes and purl, such topics as went seasonably with them—it might be his popular Majesty's latest roguery, or "Old Mob's," almost as great a thief and favourite. "The Mischief," standing as it did on the great highway running east and west, formed a convenient terminus for travellers journeying from the contiguous wilds of Berkshire and Wiltshire, the majority of whom, for reasons of economy, came by "waggon." This was a vast road craft, with a tilt, and tyres to its wheels a foot wide, whose consistent record of progress never exceeded three miles to the hour. It was drawn commonly by six sturdy roadsters in double harness, and bearing yokes with swinging bells at the hames of their collars; and time was never of the essence of its contract. But it was safe, if slow, being well prepared and armed against surprises, which were by no means of infrequent occurrence by the days-long way, especially as London was approached."

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Bernard Capes (1854-1918) was an English author whose prolific output spanned genres including historical fiction, mystery, and supernatural tales. Born in London, Capes was the son of a chemist and a descendant of Huguenot refugees, which perhaps instilled in him a fascination with history and the dramatic upheavals of the past. He began his writing career as a journalist, contributing to various periodicals before turning his hand to fiction.Capes' literary contributions are notable for their vivid storytelling and meticulous historical detail. His works often explored the darker sides of human nature and the supernatural, earning him a reputation as a master of eerie and atmospheric narratives. Among his contemporaries, Capes was admired for his ability to blend historical accuracy with compelling, often macabre, storytelling.One of the intriguing aspects of Capes' career was his ability to navigate the literary marketplace of his time, which was dominated by serialized fiction and the rise of the popular press. He was a contemporary of Arthur Conan Doyle and M.R. James, and his work influenced the burgeoning genre of detective fiction and ghost stories. Capes' tales often featured morally complex characters and unexpected twists, which kept readers on the edge of their seats.Though not without controversy, Capes' work occasionally drew criticism for its dark themes and graphic depictions of violence. However, these elements also contributed to his lasting appeal and his ability to capture the anxieties of a society on the brink of modernity. His stories continue to be rediscovered by modern readers who appreciate the blend of historical intrigue and gothic horror that Capes so masterfully crafted.