006 - The Pavillon de Lognan

Although A.E.W. Mason is perhaps best known for his adventure novel The Four Feathers, his literary prowess extends far beyond that single work. In Running Water, published in 1907, he crafts a captivating tale of romantic adventure set against the stunning backdrop of the high Alps, near Mont Blanc. Captain Hilary Chayne, fresh from four years of army service along the shores of the Red Sea, yearns for the exhilarating world of mountaineering—the ice, the rock, and the camaraderie that comes with it. His journey leads him to the enchanting Sylvia Thesiger, a young woman equally drawn to the mountains, seeking solace from her overbearing mother. As their romance unfolds, a series of disappointments, misunderstandings, and villainous challenges emerge, complicating their path to true love. The story shifts back to the breathtaking heights of the Alps for a climactic finale on the Brenva face, one of the most formidable ascents in the world. Masons vivid descriptions of climbing have earned him a place among the finest writers of mountaineering fiction. While Running Water has yet to see a film adaptation—perhaps a stroke of luck given the quality of some cinematic portrayals—its rich narrative and attention to detail will surely captivate both adventure seekers and lovers of classic literature alike. For those new to alpine terminology, Mason introduces key French terms that enrich the reading experience, providing a deeper understanding of the majestic landscapes he describes. A historical note reveals that the first ascent of the Brenva face was achieved in 1865, an endeavor commemorated in the literature of climbing. With its thrilling narrative and breathtaking setting, Running Water is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.