The Argosy, Vol. 8

# Roland Yorke

This chapter from Roland Yorke: A Sequel to "The Channings" by the author of East Lynne follows the protagonist's return to Helstonleigh Cathedral on All Saints' Day. Roland, once a king's scholar, attends morning service where he encounters familiar figures: his kinsman William Yorke and Thomas Channing, now minor canons; Stephen Bywater, an old schoolmate newly wealthy from West Indian property. Roland reflects on the missing Arthur Channing during a First Lesson from Wisdom, hoping for spiritual transformation through his intended bride Annabel. After visiting his family, Roland departs for London by train. Wandering the town's streets, he experiences disillusionment—the once-grand Helstonleigh appears contracted and shabby after his eight years abroad at Port Natal. The narrative balances nostalgia with disappointed reality as Roland confronts how memory distorts the familiar.