Tales and Sketches Part 3 from Volume V of The Works of John Greenleaf Whittier

"Tales and Sketches" by John Greenleaf Whittier is a compilation of short stories and essays, offering a window into the 1800's. The collection shows different characters dealing with right and wrong, the ups and downs of being human, and problems in society. The opening story, "The Little Iron Soldier," tells about Aminadab Ivison, a businessman whose sleep is disturbed by a small, metal toy. As he dreams of the soldier, he must think about whether his choices in politics are fair and ethical. He has to decide if he will do what is best for his business or what he believes is right, leading him to learn something about himself.