The Velvet Glove

"The Velvet Glove" by Henry Seton Merriman is a novel written during the late 19th century. The story likely unfolds against a backdrop of tension and intrigue in Spain, focusing on themes of duty, honor, and the impact of both personal and political crises on individuals and their relationships. Central to the narrative is Francisco de Mogente, a man returning to Saragossa after years of exile, whose fate intertwines with that of his daughter, Juanita. The beginning of the novel introduces Francisco de Mogente as he arrives secretly in the city of Saragossa under the cover of night. As he navigates the streets, he reflects on the passage of time and the changes that have occurred during his absence. However, his return is short-lived, as he soon becomes the target of an assassination attempt, leaving him mortally wounded in the streets. A friar comes to his aid, and the tension builds as Mogente prepares to make a will before succumbing to his injuries. Concurrently, we meet Evasio Mon, a man of calm demeanor and grave significance, who witnesses these events unfold, hinting that their interconnected paths may lead to larger implications for both Mogente's family and the society they inhabit.