The Argosy, Vol. VIII, November 1, 1869

# Roland Yorke

This installment presents Chapter XXXVI of Roland Yorke, a sequel to The Channings by the author of East Lynne, serialized in The Argosy. The chapter follows Gerald Yorke visiting his cousin Sir Vincent at Sunny Mead estate in Surrey in December. Over breakfast, discussion turns to Roland, another cousin, who has written asking Sir Vincent for employment as a working bailiff. Though modest about his qualifications, Roland outlines his practical experience with farming and livestock from his time at Port Natal, offering honest labor in exchange for modest wages. Gerald reacts with scorn to Roland's letter, viewing manual work as beneath family dignity, while Sir Vincent expresses approval of Roland's genuineness. Later, when Gerald joins Sir Vincent on a shooting party with Colonel Clutton, his unfamiliarity with firearms—having only handled a pop-gun at school—becomes apparent. After Sir Vincent cautions him, Gerald's nervousness or carelessness leads him to accidentally discharge his gun, shooting Sir Vincent.