The Argosy, Vol. 44

"In Later Years," serialized in The Argossy (December 1887), follows Valentine Chandler, a man broken by illness, failed practice, and dissolute living, as he prepares to emigrate to Canada. His loss devastates Jane Preen, a young widow still grieving her brother Oliver's death and harboring deeper feelings for Valentine. The narrative chronicles their final evening together: Valentine sings a mournful ballad ("Remember me, though rolling ocean place its bounds 'twixt thee and me"), they share intimate moments in the garden arbour, and part at the Inlets with promises and tears. Valentine commits to reform in Canada while acknowledging uncertainty about their future. The account is narrated by Johnny Ludlow, who escorts Jane home past the haunted location where she once witnessed her brother's ghost. A second section introduces Julietta Chandler returning with her vivacious friend Cherry Dawson.