The Figure in the Carpet and Other Stories Book

Mystery stories – not exactly the genre you'd typically associate with Henry James. The three stories in this collection, however, explore the mysteries of the human psyche and the human heart. 'A Light Man' is a surprisingly modern story that examines the relationships between three men, one old and very rich, two young and very poor. After returning from a prolonged period in Europe, Maximus Austin joins his friend Theodore Lisle at the luxurious estate of Frederick Sloane, who has hired Theodore as his secretary. It quickly becomes clear that Sloane's affections are fickle and that his fortune is up for grabs. But what exactly are the motivations of the two young men? Is one of them really more virtuous than the other? Henry James keeps us guessing, right up to the end of the story. 'The Madonna of the Future' asks: What does it mean to be an artist? In this classic tale, a young American tourist meets an odd character in Florence. Mr. Theobald clearly knows art, and...