Morley Ernstein; or, the Tenants of the Heart

"Morley Ernstein; or, the Tenants of the Heart" by G. P. R. James is a romance novel written in the early 19th century. The story revolves around the protagonist, Morley Ernstein, a young gentleman confronting the dualities of life as he navigates the complexities of youth, loss, and the human heart. The narrative begins with a philosophical exploration of the struggles between the corporeal and spiritual aspects of existence, setting the stage for Morley’s journey of self-discovery amidst wealth, sorrow, and unexpected connections. The opening of the book introduces Morley Ernstein at the age of twenty-one, reflecting on his life in the quiet solitude of his ancestral home. Despite having everything a young man could desire, he is troubled by a sense of melancholy as he grapples with the fleeting nature of happiness and the weight of past losses, such as the deaths of his parents. His internal conflict manifests during an exhilarating ride across the countryside, where he inadvertently intervenes in a situation involving a beautiful young lady, later revealed to be Juliet Carr. This encounter sparks Morley's interest as he becomes captivated by the mystery of her identity and the innocence she represents. As he recovers from a subsequent accident that nearly takes his life, he is drawn into deeper themes of connection, fate, and the emotional turmoil that accompanies young adulthood, foreshadowing the personal growth that lies ahead in his life’s journey. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

George Payne Rainsford James, was an English novelist and historical writer, the son of a physician in London. He was for many years British Consul at various places in the United States and on the Continent. He held the honorary office of British Historiographer Royal during the last years of William IV's reign.