Isabel Cameron, twenty, is the youngest child of old Captain Cameron and his wife, and the only child still living at home in Wallyford. The other surviving children are scattered far and wide; but there is one son, John, working nearby in Edinburgh who comes home most Saturday nights. There are indications that John is living carelessly - not always turning up for work, spending too much money, and drinking too much.
It is through John that Isabel meets the handsome and rich Mr Mansfield - so much more interesting than her faithful suitor Rob Bruce, now in an office in London. Soon Mr Mansfield is visiting often, courting her. But shortly after he confides his love, he says something most unexpected. And about this same time, Captain Cameron and his wife receive a terrible shock regarding their son John.
Biographical and other notes
This hitherto unknown story was discovered in 2013 by Joan Richardson.
British publishing information
Periodical: Life and Work, a Parish Magazine Jan - Dec 1880
Read it now