The Young Visiters

I certainly didn't expect The Young Visiters by Daisy Ashford on the list of 1001 Children's Books You Must Read.

When I was looking for the book, I wondered about the word “visiters” in the title. I knew the book was an older title. Was that how “visitors” was spelled in the past?

No, it's just one of many, many misspellings in the book. And why? Because The Young Visiters author was only nine years old when she wrote the book.

It's perfectly charming. Here's a little sample:

“Ethel he murmured in a trembly voice. Oh what is it said Ethel hastily sitting up. Words fail me ejaculated Bernard horsly my passion for you is intense he added fervently. It has grown day and night since I first beheld you. Oh said Ethel in supprise I am not prepared for this and she lent back against the trunk of the tree. Bernard placed one arm tightly round her. When will you marry me Ethel he uttered you must be my wife it has come to that I love you so intensly that if you say no I shall perforce dash my body to the brink of yon muddy river he panted wildly. Oh dont do that implored Ethel breathing rarther hard. Then say you love me he cried. Oh Bernard she sighed fervently I certinly love you madly you are to me like a Heathen god she cried looking at his manly form and handsome flashing face I will indeed marry you.”