The Argosy, Vol. 42

# The Argosy, September 1886

This issue features the serialized novel "Lady Valeria," Chapter XXXII, titled "The Heiress of Altcar." The chapter depicts a house party gathering at Altcar Court, where Eustace Stannard hosts young people from St. Fridolin's, including the modest Hester and various townspeople. The narrative focuses on domestic tensions: Eustace encounters his brother's wife, the emotionally volatile Mrs. Amy Randolf, who has arrived with her infant daughter and expresses grievances about her reception by the family. Amy manipulates social arrangements at luncheon, usurping Mary Liddell's hosting duties and positioning herself at the head table with the curate Mr. de Cressy, who shows her solicitious attention. The prose captures drawing-room comedy and interpersonal maneuvering within an aristocratic household preparing entertainments for guests. The serialized novel continues unresolved.