Raymond West and his friends each tell a mystery story, without revealing the answer so that the others can try to guess the outcome. They feel that with their combined skills and individual experience, they will be able to solve the problems presented. Raymond's Aunt Jane is one of the party.
Far from the Madding Crowd is Thomas Hardy's fourth novel and his first major literary success. Published in 1874, it tells the tale of Gabriel Oak, one of three suitors for the hand of the beautiful and spirited Bathsheba Everdene. He must compete with the dashing young soldier Sergeant Troy...