The Argosy, Vol. 21

# Edina by Mrs. Henry Wood

This serialized novel chapter concerns the romantic scheming of Frank Raynor and Margaret St. Clare. After Margaret's mother Mrs. St. Clare forbids their relationship upon learning Frank is not heir to Eagles' Nest, she threatens to disown Margaret if she marries him. Misinterpreting this ultimatum as tacit permission, the lovers decide upon immediate secret marriage. Frank obtains a license and arranges with the newly arrived, nervous young clergyman Mr. Backup to perform the ceremony at eight o'clock at Trennach church. Margaret plans to slip away undetected while her mother attends a dinner party. The couple discusses their future modest circumstances once Frank establishes himself in London as a partner to a prominent man. Margaret worries her lady's-maid Tabitha—a gossipy servant—may inform her mother of Frank's visit. Frank proceeds with characteristic thoughtlessness toward this clandestine union.