The Forgery; or, Best Intentions.

"The Forgery; or, Best Intentions" by G. P. R. James is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The story revolves around the life of Humphrey Scriven, a successful English merchant, and explores themes of family, morality, and the consequences of one’s choices. At the heart of the narrative are the relationships between Scriven, his children, and those who become entangled in the family's affairs, particularly in the wake of a life-changing event involving forgery. The opening portion of the book introduces readers to the character of Humphrey Scriven and his family dynamics. It details Mr. Scriven's past decisions, especially his choice to leave behind the church for a life in commerce, and sets the stage for the consequences his children face as they navigate their own romantic entanglements and societal expectations. The narrative takes a dark turn as Scriven's son, Henry, becomes embroiled in a forgery scandal that threatens to ruin his future. This compelling setup hints at an exploration of morality and the potentially devastating effects of familial decisions, creating anticipation for the unfolding drama in the novel. (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.