The Spoils of Poynton (Annotated - Includes Essay and Biography)

The Spoils of Poynton was originally published under the title of The Old Things. It appeared as a serial in Atlantic Monthly in 1896 and in book form in 1897.

The novel is one of James' shorter works. It revolves around the story of Mrs. Gereth and her only son Owen and a young woman named Fleda Vetch, who is in love with Owen. Fleda feels some sympathy for Mrs. Gereth who despairs of her son Owen selling a houseful of antiques from the property (Poynton) he has inherited upon his father's death. Mrs. Gereth's collection of the antiques over many years has been a labor of love.