Seven short stories from one of the most celebrated authors of the early twentieth century have been updated with an eye toward readability for modern readers. The bones of the stories are just as she told them with no changes to plot or settings. Best of all the book includes the original unedited versions in appendices. The Hermit and the Wild Woman: One escapes from war, the other from a convent, only to find themselves together in their solitude. The Last Asset: A social-climbing mother is eager to use her daughter's wedding to her own benefit. In Trust: The dream of an art academy is shared by friends who struggle to realize it. The Pretext:An older married woman considers what to do when a younger man falls in love with her. The Verdict: A man finds out why a successful painter suddenly stops painting. The Pot Boiler: A poor painter decides between artistic principles and money. The Best Man: A governor faces a scandal.