In my work here at Pelham Bay Camp with our wounded from abroad,
with our sick boys who did not get “over there,” and with the well
but often lonely men, who frequent our library, I have discovered a
distinct need for some collection of the best stories, especially
adapted to the “genus homo.” To meet this want, I have prepared this
compilation for our soldiers and sailors, and incidentally for all
to read who will.
Work with our American youth is most inspiring because of his open
mind, his courage, and his great appreciation of any service
rendered him. This fact I have learned through becoming acquainted
with the brave lads on the hospital cots at Pelham, who have needed
help in whiling away the long hours of waiting.
In all camps there are many men not acquainted with books. My aim
has been to introduce them to some of our best writers, knowing that
friendship and liking would soon follow. The work has been a
pleasant one, made doubly so because of the willing co-operation
given me by the distinguished authors whose stories are contained
herein; and by the equally generous response which the various
publishers have made to my requests. It was not done for me, but for
the purpose of the compilation. To authors and publishers I hereby
express my gratitude.
W. H.
April, 1919.