Running Sands

"Running Sands" by Reginald Wright Kauffman is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story introduces the protagonist, Jim Stainton, a rugged miner who has just found success and wealth after years of hardship. With ambitions of romance and a desire to live fully in the vibrant culture of New York City, he sets the stage for a potential love story filled with complexity and emotional depth. The opening of the novel depicts Stainton arriving in New York with a sense of accomplishment, determined to immerse himself in the city's life and culture. He decides to attend an opera, the famous "Madama Butterfly," where he unexpectedly encounters Muriel Stannard, a young woman who captivates him with her youthful beauty. Their meeting sparks a profound connection, leading Stainton to consider marrying her despite their significant age difference. The stage is set for a tale that explores themes of love, destiny, and the interplay of youth and maturity, as Stainton grapples with both his feelings for Muriel and the societal implications of their potential union.