The Argosy, Vol. 67

About this issue

This serialized story, set in 1899 Scotland, follows Jessie Bayliss, a young woman living in the bleak Birrendale household with her widowed aunt Mrs. Bayliss and cousin Alison. The narrative opens on April 7th—the anniversary of Jessie's father's drowning in the Birren Water—establishing gothic atmosphere through weather and psychological distress. Jessie, described as beautiful with particular attention to her expressive mouth, reflects on her absent suitor Mac Carruthers while attending to household repairs and contemplating her family's financial decline. The story shifts to backstory: four years prior, Captain James Bayliss and Major Johnstone discussed an unexpected financial windfall while fishing at a salmon pool, with Bayliss troubled rather than pleased by his newfound wealth. The narrative promises mystery and movement across its pages, invoking the romantic historical associations of the Tower and its gardens.