The Purchase Price; Or, The Cause of Compromise

"The Purchase Price; Or, The Cause of Compromise" by Emerson Hough is a historical novel penned during the early 20th century. The book centers around the intriguing character of Josephine St. Auban, a young woman caught up in the complexities of political tensions in a divided America, particularly concerning the contentious issue of slavery. As she embarks on a journey under the watchful eye of Captain Edward Carlisle, their interactions set the stage for a deeper exploration of ideals, loyalty, and the question of personal freedom amid societal constraints. At the start of the narrative, we meet Josephine and Captain Carlisle aboard the river packet "Mount Vernon". Their conversation reveals their complicated relationship, as she oscillates between defiant prisoner and clever conversationalist, while he grapples with his duty as her military escort. Tension builds as they discuss the implications of her situation, hinting at political intrigue and the potential for escape. Entering their world are additional figures such as Senator Dunwody, who adds another layer of complication with his interest in Josephine. This prelude sets the tone for an unfolding drama filled with themes of captivity, power dynamics, and the struggle for self-determination in a society on the brink of turmoil. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Emerson Hough was an American writer best known for writing western stories and historical novels. His early works included Singing Mouse Stories and Story of the Cowboy. He was well known for his 1902 historical novel The Mississippi Bubble. Many of his works have been adapted into films and serial films.