As Many as Touched Him

A novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Ellen Mansfield, a young girl navigating her duties at home and her aspirations to become a dressmaker, as well as her relationships with her family, particularly her sick brother Jerry. The narrative is infused with themes of faith, healing, and personal growth, exploring both the burdens and joys of familial love. The opening of the book introduces Ellen as she anxiously waits for a letter from her Aunt Matilda, indicating a longing for connection and change in her life. The chapter paints a vivid picture of her daily life on a farm, her impatience with household chores, and her deep affection for her ailing brother, Jerry, who dreams of being healed. Ellen's encounter with a stranger—a preacher—adds a layer of intrigue and foreshadows the spiritual and emotional challenges she will face. The narrative establishes Ellen's inner conflict and foreshadows the themes of faith, healing, and the search for a sense of purpose that will unfold as the story progresses.