From one of the greatest novelists in the English language, Poor
Richard is an early short story by Henry James exploring one man's
growth and success alongside one woman's faithlessness.
First published in 1867, Poor Richard is an engaging short story
warning about the dangers and unreliability of women. Penniless and
orphaned, Richard Maule seeks to make the wealthy Gertrude Whittaker his
wife. As he chases the girl, Richard reforms his life and begins to make
a success of himself. But will Gertrude see the changes he's making or
will she continue to toy with various men's hearts?
Henry James wrote this short story with influence from Benjamin
Franklin's annual publication, Poor Richard's Almanack. The periodical
was published between 1732 and 1758, and it collated various articles
and columns, including practical tips, weather forecasts, and
industry-related observations.