The Fool of Arley: or The Footfall on the Snow

In the quaint English countryside lies the peaceful village of Arley soon to be rocked by a violent snowstorm—just as a young boy falls gravely ill to the mysterious fever.
It’s already claimed several local children, and the only hope for James Grindley is to
quickly get to the hospital miles away,—which will require the fastest carriage in town. The big problem is—it happens to belong to “Old Man Milligan”, as he’s called behind his back,—a foolish old atheist that regards all the town’s church-going folk with contempt.

Despite the doctor making an impassioned request, the heartless old man denies the use of his carriage. He’d sooner gamble the young boy’s life than have the fever contaminate it. But over the howl of the snow-laden winds, unknown to Milligan and the doctor, the 18-year-old neighbor, Will, overhears the old man’s cruel refusal to help. Although his pious God-fearing mother raised him to “always do right”, he’s gripped by a moral dilemma when he observes old Milligan leave for the town pub neglecting to lock his cottage door.

Will’s dismay over the boy’s dire condition adds to a powerful temptation. Ignoring all risks, he resolves to sneak Milligan’s carriage out, get James to the hospital and return—all unobserved—counting on his movements to be cloaked by the thick snowfall. But he must put his plan in motion quickly! As deep snow blankets the land, Will races against time, torn by icy winds and sharp pangs of conscience—but his only hope now is to save the boy.

Does James survive? Will his mother’s heart break if she hears of his treachery? And what awful vengeance will hateful old Milligan exact if he discovers this betrayal? Embark upon this gripping journey to see the unforeseen consequences of his impulsive decision and how the Almighty works out His perfect plan. Explore these pages for a wholesome
yet riveting tale of courage and consequence to find out!