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

"Tales and Sketches" by John Greenleaf Whittier is a collection of short stories and essays written during the mid-19th century. The book explores various themes through its diverse characters and narratives, reflecting on human experiences, moral dilemmas, and social issues of the time, often with a touch of humor and sentimentality. The opening of the collection introduces readers to "The Little Iron Soldier," which follows the character Aminadab Ivison, a middle-aged businessman who is plagued by troubling dreams. In his dreams, he encounters a little iron soldier that prompts him to consider the ethical implications of his political decisions, specifically regarding the candidate he is to vote for in an upcoming election. The narrative deftly captures Aminadab's internal struggle as he grapples with the tension between his business interests and his moral beliefs, ultimately leading him to a moment of self-reflection and growth. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

John Greenleaf Whittier was an American Quaker poet and advocate of the abolition of slavery in the United States. Frequently listed as one of the fireside poets, he was influenced by the Scottish poet Robert Burns. Whittier is remembered particularly for his anti-slavery writings, as well as his 1866 book Snow-Bound.