"The River's End" by James Oliver Curwood is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around two men, Derwent Conniston, a member of the Northwest Mounted Police, and Keith, an outlaw who has captured Conniston's interest due to their striking physical resemblance. The novel explores themes of morality, justice, and identity, as Conniston finds himself grappling with the implications of his duty versus the kinship he feels towards Keith. The opening of "The River's End" sets a suspenseful and introspective tone, as Conniston reflects on his long pursuit of Keith, a man he was tasked to bring in for a crime. They find themselves in a tiny cabin surrounded by the fierce arctic storm, where Conniston is near death from an illness. The dynamics of their relationship become complex as Conniston discovers that Keith, despite being his quarry, has been trying to nurse him back to health. As Conniston discusses his impending death and the burden of bringing in Keith alive, he proposes a daring exchange of identities. The narrative quickly escalates with tension and the question of morality, friendship, and sacrifice hanging in the balance. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Kennedy Square" by Francis Hopkinson Smith is a novel written during the late 19th century. Set against the backdrop of a picturesque square in a bygone era, the narrative introduces us to characters steeped in the social fabric and intricacies of their time, primarily revolving around St. George Wilmot Temple, an attorney, and his devoted young servant Todd. The book likely explores themes of social class, loyalty, and the complexities of personal relationships amid the evolving dynamics of a changing society. The opening portion sets the stage with vivid descriptions of Kennedy Square, revealing it as a vibrant, lively hub where various characters interact against the backdrop of nature's beauty. We meet Todd, a jovial young servant eagerly waiting for his master’s return from a hunting trip. St. George’s character is gradually unveiled, highlighting his charm and the dynamics of his relationships, especially with Todd and the local society. Todd's anticipation reflects the warmth and community spirit of the time, establishing not only the physical setting but also the social nuances that will likely play a central role throughout the story. The arrival of other key characters hints at developing conflicts and friendships that will unfold as the narrative progresses. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"At the Villa Rose" by A. E. W. Mason is a murder mystery novel set during the late 19th century. The story revolves around Mr. Julius Ricardo, a wealthy widower who travels to Aix-les-Bains for leisure but finds himself embroiled in a sinister crime when the wealthy Mme. Camille Dauvray is murdered at her villa. As Ricardo navigates through the intrigue of high society, he becomes entangled with the young and beautiful Celia Harland, whose fate intertwines with the dark mystery surrounding the murder. At the start of the novel, Mr. Ricardo is introduced as a man enjoying his summer retreat at Aix-les-Bains, where he mingles at the local baccarat tables and observes the nuanced lives of the people around him. One fateful night, he witnesses the anxious and beautiful Celia Harland before the news breaks of the shocking murder of Mme. Dauvray, for which Celia quickly becomes a prime suspect. The opening establishes a tone of mystery through Ricardo’s observations and budding curiosity about Celia, setting the stage for a deeper investigation led by the detective M. Hanaud. The stage is further complicated by the backstories of the characters and the dynamics of crime, wealth, and intrigue. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Ten Nights in a Bar Room" by T. S. Arthur is a cautionary novel written in the mid-19th century. The story unfolds primarily in the setting of the 'Sickle and Sheaf' tavern, under the management of Simon Slade, as it explores the dire consequences of alcohol consumption on individuals and families, particularly focusing on Joe Morgan, a once-respected miller who succumbs to the lure of drink, leaving his wife and children to suffer from his addiction. At the start of the novel, we meet Simon Slade as he prepares to take on the role of a tavern keeper, expressing pride in his new establishment and a naive belief that his son, Frank, is safe from the temptations of alcohol. As customers begin to arrive, we see Joe Morgan, the tragic figure in the narrative, who grapples with his own inner demons. The opening portion delves into the dynamics between Slade, his family, and the specter of social vice personified by Joe Morgan and others, hinting at the broader themes of morality, temptation, and the detrimental effects of tavern life on young minds. As the various characters' lives intertwine, the reader begins to sense the impending disaster that alcohol can cause in their lives. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Country Beyond: A Romance of the Wilderness" by James Oliver Curwood is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in the wilderness near Lake Superior, focusing on themes of adventure, survival, and the strength of the human spirit. The narrative introduces us to Peter, an endearing puppy, and Nada, a beautiful young girl faced with the harsh realities of her life, including the abusive presence of Jed Hawkins. The opening of the novel sets a picturesque yet somber atmosphere, highlighting the contrasting beauty of the Canadian wilderness and the troubling circumstances of the characters. As spring flourishes, Peter embarks on a journey of bravery and newfound courage, while Nada grapples with her difficult life, trapped under the control of Hawkins. Their paths intertwine as the narrative hints at impending conflict and the hopeful possibility of freedom. Peter’s loyalty and innocence play a critical role in the evolving story, as both he and Nada seek to overcome the challenges posed by their tumultuous surroundings, suggesting a deepening bond between them that transcends their hardships. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Shepherd of the Hills" by Harold Bell Wright is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story unfolds in the Ozark hills and revolves around the lives of several characters, particularly focusing on the arrival of a mysterious stranger, Mr. Howitt, who seeks solace and perhaps redemption in the mountains after a life of sorrow and loss. The narrative introduces us to other key figures in the community, such as the strong and kind-hearted giant, Mr. Matthews, and his son Young Matt, a capable young man caught in a web of unrequited love and community expectations. At the start of the book, a weary stranger makes his way into the Mutton Hollow neighborhood during a steady rain, looking lost yet refined in contrast to the rugged landscape. He encounters a local boy, Jed Holland, who guides him to the Matthews' residence. The narrative paints a vivid picture of the stranger's intriguing demeanor, hinting at his troubled past, and introduces the stark contrast between him and the people of the hills. As the first chapter progresses, we learn about various relationships in the valley, notably between Young Matt and Sammy Lane, a beautiful young woman in the community who has plans to leave for the city soon, adding tension to the simple yet profound lives of these characters in the Ozarks. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Grim Smile of the Five Towns" by Arnold Bennett is a novel likely written during the early 20th century. The book explores the lives and complexities of the inhabitants of the fictional Five Towns, a community in the Staffordshire potteries known for its rich character studies and social dynamics. The story opens with a focus on two brothers, Horace and Sidney Carpole, delving into themes of familial responsibility, love, and the consequences of actions. The opening portion of the novel introduces readers to Horace Carpole, who is depicted as an altruistic yet socially awkward young man, and his frail half-brother Sidney, recovering from illness under the care of their mother. The narrative sets the tone for a grim comedy, with hints at tragedy stemming from an accident involving the two brothers that leads to Sidney's prolonged health issues. As the story progresses, it unveils Horace's emotional burdens and the societal pressures he faces as he navigates relationships while trying to be a responsible figure in Sidney's life. The dynamics of family and community perceptions against their personal struggles create a compelling backdrop, promising further exploration of their intertwined fates. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"When Egypt Went Broke: A Novel" by Holman Day is a fictional narrative likely written during the early 20th century. The story is set in a town named Egypt and revolves around the character Tasper Britt, who is depicted as a powerful moneylender, sometimes referred to as "Phay-ray-oh." As the narrative unfolds, it hints at themes of ambition, societal power dynamics, and personal aspirations, particularly through Britt’s attempts to gain political honor and reclaim his reputation in a community that views him with disdain. The opening of the novel introduces us to Tasper Britt’s daily life, showcasing his routines and inner thoughts as a widower seeking to redefine himself after the death of his wife, Hittie. Britt’s actions are influenced by his desire to impress a young woman named Vona Harnden, who works in his bank. The narrative captures his blend of vanity, ambition, and a newfound sense of freedom that leads him to aspire for political promotion in a town plagued by debt and hardship. As tensions rise around Britt's controversial status in the town, the introduction of other characters, including his brother Usial and the Prophet Elias, sets the stage for conflicts that explore the consequences of greed and the dynamics of brotherhood in a struggling community. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Seven Little Australians" by Ethel Turner is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the Woolcot family, particularly the seven mischief-making siblings who navigate life in Australia with a balance of humor, chaos, and the typical challenges of childhood. The narrative begins with a lively introduction to the characters, highlighting their distinct personalities and the spirited dynamic of their household. At the start of the novel, the author paints a vivid picture of the seven Woolcot children at their chaotic nursery tea, where chaos reigns supreme amidst their raucous behavior. The reader is introduced to each child in detail, from Meg, the eldest, to Bunty, Baby, and the clever, mischievous Judy, who often finds herself at the center of trouble. Their father, Captain Woolcot, struggles to maintain order amidst the lively and often noisy household, where the children’s antics continuously defy traditional expectations. Capturing the essence of childhood in all its mischief and unpredictability, the opening portion sets the stage for a charming and engaging exploration of family life, relationships, and the individual character of each child. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Observations By Mr. Dooley" by Finley Peter Dunne is a collection of humorous essays and social commentary written during the late 19th century. The work features Mr. Dooley, an Irish-American bartender living in Chicago who shares his witticisms and insightful observations on a range of topics, from politics to literature, culture, and contemporary issues of the time. Through the voice of Mr. Dooley, the author captures the spirit of the era and offers a satirical take on society, ultimately revealing the complexities of American life in that period. The beginning of "Observations By Mr. Dooley" introduces readers to Mr. Dooley's character and provides a glimpse into his thoughts on literature as he whimsically recounts the evolution of writing and reading. He critiques the modern obsession with literary pursuits, particularly the rise of amateur authors, and comments on the peculiarities of societal views on literature and the arts. With humor and a unique conversational tone, Mr. Dooley reflects on the changing dynamics of moral and intellectual life, setting the stage for the social critiques that characterize the rest of the book. Through Mr. Dooley’s musings, readers are invited to explore the humorous and often ironic perspectives on the world around him. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Darkness and Daylight: A Novel" by Mary Jane Holmes is a fictional narrative written in the late 19th century. The story explores the lives and intricate relationships of characters such as Richard Harrington, a blind man, and Edith Hastings, a spirited young girl, set against the backdrop of a mysterious and once-abandoned estate called Collingwood. The novel delves into themes of love, tragedy, and the burden of familial expectations, while also hinting at the supernatural with the ghosts of grief that linger in the shadows of Collingwood. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Collingwood, an estate that has been silent for years due to the eccentricities of its owner, Captain Harrington, and the lingering sorrow of his son, Richard, who has lost both his wife and child. Following years of wandering, Richard decides to return to his ancestral home, bringing with him the young Edith, who becomes enchanted with Collingwood's beauty and its mysteries. As Richard wrestles with his blindness and his emotional scars, the curious and tenacious Edith begins to bridge the gap between darkness and light, illustrating the healing power of companionship and hope. The opening chapters set the stage for a tale that promises to be rich in emotional depth and character exploration. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Wacousta: A Tale of the Pontiac Conspiracy — Volume 2" by Major John Richardson is a historical novel likely written in the early 19th century. Set against the backdrop of the conflict between Native Americans and colonial forces, the narrative centers around the events following a military blockade in Detroit, where tension mounts as characters navigate issues of loyalty, betrayal, and courage amidst a landscape rife with warfare. The opening portion of the book introduces readers to a pivotal evening at the fort, where disguised young officers are preparing for a dangerous mission guided by a Canadian known as Francois. As they embark on an uncertain journey, anxiety and concern permeate the air, amplified by the haunting memories of former tragic events that had transpired nearby. The narrative unfolds with a palpable sense of foreboding as the characters grapple with their pasts, culminating in a powerful moment of connection and a secret oath, signaling the profound stakes of survival and fidelity in tumultuous times. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Wacousta: A Tale of the Pontiac Conspiracy — Volume 1" by John Richardson is a historical novel written in the early 19th century. The book delves into the tumultuous period following the British acquisition of the Canadas from France, focusing on the conflicts between the British settlers and Native American tribes led by the powerful chief, Pontiac. Central to the narrative is the character of Lieutenant Frank Halloway, who becomes embroiled in the conspiracy surrounding the siege of the forts at Detroit and Michilimackinac, as tensions escalate into violent confrontations. The opening portion of the book sets the stage with a preface that provides context about the historical background and the geopolitical landscape of the time. It introduces the cunning strategy employed by Pontiac to reclaim territory from the British, highlighting both triumphs and tragedies. Following this, the introductory chapter paints a vivid picture of the setting, detailing the fortifications and the emotional atmosphere within the garrison at Detroit as they prepare for potential assaults. Key characters are introduced, including the cautious Governor and the conflicted officers of the fort, as they grapple with the implications of Halloway’s sudden appearance within the fortified walls, which stirs both alarm and intrigue. The narrative emphasizes the themes of loyalty, treachery, and the uncertainty of survival in a besieged landscape. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Histoire des voyages de Scarmentado" by Voltaire is a satirical novel written in the mid-18th century, reflecting the Enlightenment era's spirit. The book follows the absurd and comedic adventures of its main character, Scarmentado, as he travels through various countries and cultures. As a work of fiction infused with criticism of social norms, religion, and politics, it presents a humorous yet thought-provoking commentary on human nature and society. The narrative begins with Scarmentado's background and education in Rome, before traveling through France, England, Holland, Spain, Turkey, Persia, and China. Throughout his journey, Scarmentado encounters a series of absurd situations and characters, highlighting the hypocrisy, violence, and absurdity present within different cultures and religious practices. From inquisitorial tortures in Spain to the bizarre feuds among Christians and the complex social dynamics in Turkey and Persia, Scarmentado's experiences illustrate the irrationality of human behavior. Ultimately, after facing countless perils and ironies across the globe, Scarmentado returns home, marries, and reflects on his life, concluding that domesticity, despite its inherent challenges, is the most peaceful and content state of existence. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Autour de la Lune" by Jules Verne is a science fiction novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows the audacious adventure of three men—President Barbicane, Captain Nicholl, and the bold Frenchman Michel Ardan—as they attempt an unprecedented journey to the Moon by being launched in a massive cannonball, the Columbiad. The narrative unfolds their intricate preparations and the potential challenges they face as they leave Earth behind. The opening of the novel introduces the ambitious project initiated by the Gun-Club, a society of artillery enthusiasts, aimed at communicating with the Moon through a projectile. President Barbicane leads the endeavor, meticulously calculating the cannon's specifications and the necessary measures for success. The story quickly escalates when Michel Ardan proposes to join the voyage by enclosing himself within the projectile, transforming the mission into a bold adventure with human participants. As the narrative progresses, the three men prepare for launch, navigating their excitement and trepidation, and ultimately experiencing the cataclysmic moment of takeoff, which propels them into the vastness of space toward their celestial destination. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

It seems there was a misunderstanding, as you provided "START OF BOOK" and "END OF BOOK" without the actual content of "An African Millionaire: Episodes in the Life of the Illustrious Colonel Clay". To provide the two paragraphs as requested, I would need either a summary of the book or specific excerpts from it. If there are particular sections or themes you'd like me to focus on, please provide more context or details! (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Mr. Achilles" by Jennette Lee is a novel written in the early 20th century, likely during the 1910s. The book introduces readers to Achilles Alexandrakis, a Greek fruit vendor in Chicago who is deeply nostalgic for his homeland, Athens. As he interacts with his customers, he longs for connection and the opportunity to share the beauty of his culture, yet he struggles with the distance and isolation he feels in a new world that seems indifferent to his existence. At the start of the book, readers are greeted with Achilles arranging fruit at his stall while reminiscing about Athens. His heart is heavy with homesickness and disappointment, as he eagerly awaits questions about his homeland that never come. We see his gentle nature and hopeful spirit when he encounters a young girl named Betty Harris, who, intrigued by his heritage, asks him about the Parthenon. Their interaction inspires Achilles, filling him with warmth and purpose, highlighting the stark contrast between his vibrant memories of Greece and the harsh reality of his life in America. This poignant opening sets the tone for a narrative rich in themes of cultural identity, longing, and the quest for belonging. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"The Veiled Lady, and Other Men and Women" by Francis Hopkinson Smith is a collection of short stories likely written during the late 19th century. The stories present a vivid exploration of various characters and scenarios, from charming personalities interacting in exotic locales to tales of adventure and emotional complexity, showcasing the author's keen observational skills and narrative style. At the start of this collection, the first story, "The Veiled Lady of Stamboul," introduces Joe Hornstog, a Levantine dragoman in Istanbul, and an unnamed painter who recounts the captivating moment he encounters a mysterious veiled woman. The scene unfolds with the painter absorbed in his work at a mosque when he catches a glimpse of the enchanting houri, Yuleima, whose beauty and presence intrigue him. Joe warns of the dangers present due to a police officer's arrival, setting a tone of suspense and capturing the contrasting atmosphere of beauty and risk in the vibrant city. The narrative weaves a sense of longing and cultural richness that invites readers to delve further into the stories presented in this collection. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

“The Landloper: The Romance of a Man on Foot” by Holman Day is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Walker Farr, a young man who travels on foot along a country road, embodying the essence of a wanderer or “landloper” with no fixed destination. His adventures and interactions with various characters reveal his outlook on life, as well as themes of individuality versus societal norms. At the start of the novel, Walker Farr meanders down a dusty highway, showing both a carefree spirit and a degree of aloofness. He encounters a suspicious farmer who assumes him to be a vagrant, leading to a humorous exchange. Walker primarily seems detached from the societal expectations as he interacts with a wealthy automobile owner and a young woman named Kat Kilgour, whom he finds captivating. Their brief yet profound encounter leaves a lasting impression on him. As he continues his journey, he reflects on the simplicity of life and the burdens of societal expectations, giving readers a glimpse into his philosophical musings and the unique characters he meets along the way. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Tom Swift in the City of Gold; Or, Marvelous Adventures Underground" by Victor Appleton is a youth adventure novel likely written in the early 20th century. The book follows the energetic young inventor Tom Swift as he embarks on a thrilling quest to uncover the secrets of a fabled underground city filled with gold, based on a mysterious letter he receives from an African missionary, Mr. Illingway. This adventure promises excitement, danger, and perhaps the chance for Tom to bring back treasures, including a solid gold image worshipped by a native tribe. At the start of the story, Tom Swift receives an intriguing letter from Mr. Illingway, informing him of a golden image worshipped by a tribe near Gumba Twamba, Africa, and hints at a hidden underground city of gold associated with it. Excited by the possibility, Tom shares the news with his father and Mr. Damon, a close friend. Despite initial hesitations, Tom convinces them both to join him on this quest, and he also enlists his loyal caretaker, Eradicate. As preparations are made for their journey to Mexico, the tension builds around potential dangers, such as head-hunters, and the possibility of rival characters, like the Foger family, attempting to follow their adventure. This opening hints at a fun mix of innovation, exploration, and the trials of youthful ambition. (This is an automatically generated summary.)