The Argosy, Vol. 62

About this issue

This issue of The Argosy (December 1896) contains Chapter LI of "The Mistress of Brae Farm" by Rosa Nouchette Carey, a domestic novel serialized across multiple installments. In this chapter, titled "There Is Always Light," Ellison discovers that her betrothed Gavin has developed romantic feelings for another woman, Mrs. Herbert (Lorraine), whom he comforted during her distress while Ellison was away in Switzerland. Gavin writes to confess his emotional transgression and asks forgiveness, maintaining he remained technically faithful and requesting that Mrs. Herbert be kept away from Brae Farm until after their marriage. Ellison, devastated, flees to London for a week to compose herself. Upon her return, she summons Gavin and reveals she cannot marry him, removing her betrothal ring. Gavin reacts with anger, refusing to accept her rejection and insisting she keep her word. The chapter concludes mid-confrontation as their dialogue breaks off.