Basset: A Village Chronicle
by S. G. Tallentyre
Transcribed and annotated by Courtney Seligman
S. G. Tallentyre was the pen name of Evelyn Beatrice Hall (1868 – 1919). She is primarily known as a biographer of Voltaire, and as the author of a quote usually attributed to Voltaire -- “I may not agree with what you say, but I'll fight to the death to protect your right to say it.” -- which is actually a paraphrase of Voltaire’s views, from “The Friends of Voltaire” (1906). Among her few novels is “Basset: A Village Chronicle”, a wryly nostalgic look back, from the perspective of 1911, at an English country village of early Victorian times. Out of print for nearly a century, the novel is presented here for the enjoyment of those who enjoy quiet walks along country paths, whether real or imaginary.
Since many terms in use in 1911 and 1837 have fallen into disuse, notes have been provided where appropriate; and although the novel is in the public domain, this transcription and its annotations are subject to copyright law.
Using the Annotations
Annotations are provided for "linked" words or phrases, which are underlined (unless your browser has turned off underlining), and in a bright blue color. They can be viewed by (1) clicking on the link, to skip to the Notes at the end of the chapter (this is intended primarily for readers who want to print the pages), or (2) by holding the cursor over the link for a second or two (try that with the following example, from Chapter 1).
...when policemen were called “peelers,” and omnibuses “shillibeers”... |
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Fantasy and Romantic Fiction
