The Argosy, Vol. 34

This issue of The Argos (September 1882, Vol. XXXIV) features the serial "Mrs. Raven's Temptation" by the author of "Dr. Hardy's Marriage," presented in Chapter XXI. The story concerns Frank Raven, a young man troubled by cryptic allegations about his paternity from an unnamed woman ("the Oriental Mystery"), who claims he is not his father's biological son. Frank confides his anxieties to his uncle, the Reverend Connell, a minister who attempts to reassure him through evidence of family resemblance and the legitimacy of his father's will. Meanwhile, Frank's mother, Mrs. Raven, insists on returning to Ravenscourt despite her nervous condition, and Frank observes mysterious behavior from Evelyn, who conceals a letter. The narrative develops as a domestic mystery exploring doubt, inheritance, and family secrets.