Mr. Standfast

John Buchan

2022 aza. · DigiCat

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Mr. Standfast is a novel by John Buchan. Buchan was a Scottish novelist, historian, and Unionist politician, here providing a story set during the First World War. Excerpt: "I returned to France on 13 September, and took over my old brigade on the 19th of the same month. We were shoved in at the Polygon Wood on the 26th, and after four days got so badly mauled that we were brought out to refit. On 7 October, very much to my surprise, I was given command of a division and was on the fringes of the Ypres fighting during the first days of November. From that front we were hurried down to Cambrai in support, but came in only for the last backwash of that singular battle. We held a bit of the St Quentin sector till just before Christmas, when we had a spell of rest in billets, which endured, so far as I was concerned, till the beginning of January, when I was sent off on the errand which I shall presently relate."

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John Buchan, 1st Baron Tweedsmuir (1875–1940) was a Scottish novelist, historian, and politician, remembered predominantly for his classic suspense and adventure novels. Born in Perth, Scotland, Buchan was educated at Glasgow University and Brasenose College, Oxford. In his literary career, he wrote nearly thirty novels and seven collections of short stories. Among his most famous works is 'The Thirty-Nine Steps', which established him as one of the pioneers of spy fiction, shaping the genre for future writers. 'Mr. Standfast', published in 1919, is the third in Buchan's five Richard Hannay novels and continues the adventurous exploits of its protagonist during World War I. This novel is appreciated for its compelling narrative and intricate plotting, exemplifying Buchan's skillful blending of action and reflection. Buchan's writing style is noted for its clear prose, brisk pacing, and a keen sense of suspense, which has ensured his popularity as a writer of adventure tales. Beyond his literary contributions, Buchan served as Governor General of Canada from 1935 until his death, reflecting his active involvement in public life and contemporary politics. Buchan's work in various fields has been respected for its breadth and impact, making him a significant cultural figure in early 20th-century Britain.