This book contains the following story:
"Harding's Luck" is a children's fantasy novel written by Edith Nesbit, first published in 1909. It is the second book in the "House of Arden" series, following "The House of Arden." Here is a plot summary of "Harding's Luck":
Setting and Characters: The story is set in England and features several characters, including Dickie Harding (also known as Richard Arden), Edred Arden, Elfrida Arden, and their aunt, Aunt Edith. The story begins in the early 20th century.
The Initial Situation: Dickie Harding, a poor London boy who believes he is an orphan, discovers that he possesses the ability to travel through time when he falls asleep on a carved wooden cross. In his dreams, he visits the past and has adventures in different historical periods.
Discovering His True Identity: As Dickie continues to have these time-traveling dreams, he begins to uncover clues about his true identity. He learns that he is a long-lost member of the Arden family and the rightful heir to the Arden estate. His travels through time reveal the history of his family and their ancestral home.
The Quest for Lost Treasures: Dickie embarks on a quest to recover the lost family treasure, including a valuable heirloom known as the "Egg of the Moon." Along the way, he encounters various challenges, including dealing with a group of counterfeiters and navigating the complexities of time travel.
Meeting Historical Figures: As in the previous book, Dickie meets historical figures during his time-traveling adventures, such as Sir Richard Plantagenet (Richard III) and the legendary Robin Hood. These encounters provide both adventure and historical context.
Themes of Identity and Heritage: Throughout the story, Dickie grapples with questions of identity and heritage. He must decide whether to embrace his newfound status as an Arden and the responsibilities that come with it.
Resolution: Dickie ultimately succeeds in recovering the lost treasures, including the "Egg of the Moon." He also reunites with his long-lost family, the Ardens. The story concludes with Dickie's acceptance of his heritage and his place in the Arden family.
Conclusion: "Harding's Luck" is a magical and adventurous tale that continues the themes of time travel, heritage, and family from the first book in the series. It explores the idea that one's past and lineage can have a profound impact on one's present and future. The story encourages readers to embrace their roots and take pride in their heritage while also celebrating the power of imagination and the wonder of time travel.
