Miss Bracegirdle and Others

Miss Bracegirdle and Others is a delightful collection of short stories that showcases Stacy Aumonier's keen insight into human nature and his sharp wit. Set in Edwardian England, these tales explore the quirks and eccentricities of everyday people, often highlighting the humorous side of social conventions and class distinctions. The title story, "Miss Bracegirdle Does Her Duty," follows a prim and proper spinster who finds herself in a compromising situation when she accidentally enters the wrong hotel room, leading to a series of comedic and unexpected events. Other notable stories include "The Octave of Jealousy," a tale of a man's descent into madness driven by jealousy, and "Where Was Wych Street?," a poignant narrative of lost love. Aumonier's writing is characterized by its wit, compassion, and observant eye, making this collection a classic that continues to entertain readers today.

Stacy Aumonier was a British writer and stage performer, acclaimed for his short stories that delved into the intricacies of human nature and society. Coming from a family with a rich artistic heritage, he initially pursued painting before turning to writing. Between 1913 and 1928, Aumonier published over 85 short stories, six novels, and several essays. His works were celebrated for their wit, insight, and emotional depth. Notably, Nobel laureate John Galsworthy praised Aumonier as "one of the best short-story writers of all time." Despite his untimely death from tuberculosis at the age of 51, Aumonier's literary contributions have left a lasting impact on British literature.