Sturdy and Strong: or How George Andrews Made His Way. By G. A. Henty. Illustrated. A. L. Burt, Publishers, New York. (ca. 1900)
 
Positing that any man can rise to greatness despite the distinct social structure in England, Henty wrote Sturdy and Strong to prove his point. The story of a man with a true "rags to riches" story, the novel was first published in 1888.
 
Henty wrote approximately 144 books, plus stories for magazines and was dubbed as "The Prince of Story-Tellers" and "The Boy's Own Historian."
 
"The history of a hero of everyday life, whose love of truth, clothing of modesty, and innate pluck, carry him, naturally, from poverty to affluence. George Andrews is an example of character with nothing to cavil at, and stands as a good instance of chivalry in domestic life"--From publisher's website.

Green with orange, light blue & black decorative art to front & spine. Nice cover overall with mild soil to rear board and a sun lightened spine. Undated circa 1900, with 1902 b-day inscription at front endpaper. Mild center crack otherwise secure with clean pages. 7-1/2 x 5 with 301 pp. plus 10 ads. Illustrated.