Other editions of book The Mansion

From the edge of the hill, where John Weightman sat, he could see the travelers, in little groups or larger companies, gathering from time to time by the different paths, and making the ascent. They were all clothed in white, and the form of their garments was strange to him; it was like some old picture. They passed him, group after group, talking quietly together or singing; not moving in haste, but with a certain air of eagerness and joy as if they were glad to be on their way to an appointed place. They did not stay to speak to him, but they looked at him often and spoke to one another as they looked; and now and then one of them would smile and beckon him a friendly greeting, so that he felt they would like him to be with them. (from "The Mansion")

This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the original. Due to its age, it may contain imperfections such as marks, notations, marginalia and flawed pages. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions that are true to the original work.

Henry van Dyke (1852-1933) was an American author, educator, and clergyman. He graduated from Princeton University, 1873, and from Princeton Theological Seminary, 1874 and served as a professor of English literature at Princeton between 1899 and 1923. In 1908-09 Dr. Van Dyke was an American lecturer at the University of Paris. By appointment of President Wilson he became Minister to the Netherlands and Luxembourg in 1913. He was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Letters and received many other honors. He chaired the committee that wrote the first Presbyterian printed liturgy, The Book of Common Worship of 1906. Among his popular writings are the two Christmas stories The Other Wise Man (1896) and The First Christmas Tree (1897). Various religious themes of his work are also expressed in his poetry, hymns and the essays collected in Little Rivers (1895) and Fisherman's Luck (1899). He compiled several short stories in The Blue Flower named after a story by Novalis in 1902. He also contributed a chapter to the collaborative novel, The Whole Family (1908).

In this rarely read fable, Van Dyke explores the meaning of charity and genuine goodness when it comes to leading a good religious life. John Weightman believed firmly in his proper accounting of life. But, on Christmas Eve, when his son rages against the wisdom of prospering at the cost of one's soul, John questions the laws that have guided him to money and influence. Van Dyke's exhortation against materialism rings as true now as it ever has, encouraging all readers to examine the meaning of their own lives. American author and clergyman HENRY VAN DYKE (1852-1933) was pastor of Brick Presbyterian Church in New York City from 1883 to 1899 and professor of English literature at Princeton University from 1899 to 1923. He wrote numerous books of poetry and devotion, including Little Rivers (1895), The Other Wise Man (1896), and Fisherman's Luck (1899).

This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the original. Due to its age, it may contain imperfections such as marks, notations, marginalia and flawed pages. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions that are true to the original work.

Short, sweet and to the point, The Mansion is a novelette by Henry van Dyke that teaches a very simple--yet oft forgotten--lesson. John Weightman is Scrooge taken to the next level. He is the kind of charitable soul who gives 'to be seen of men' and considers doing good a solid investment if done prudently. Anonymous service is certainly not on his agenda. That all changes when Weightman has his own epiphany, opening his eyes to the reality and consequences of his choices. The Mansion is truly a lovely story. Quick and easy to read, but its impact will linger on. It puts worldly achievements and possessions into proper perspective, reminding readers of the true spirit in which life should be lived, at Christmas and all other times.