Margery Daw

Margery Daw by Bertha M. Clay (1902)

"Margery Daw" by Bertha M. Clay is a melodramatic novel that begins with a tragic train accident near Chesterham Junction. Amidst the chaos, a woman is found dead, and her young daughter, Margery, is discovered unharmed. The story unfolds with Margery being taken in by a kind lady, Mrs. Graham, who temporarily cares for her. The narrative then shifts to the Crosbie family, where Stuart Crosbie, the young squire, becomes enamored with Margery, despite her mysterious origins and the disapproval of his mother, Mrs. Crosbie. As the plot progresses, Stuart's affection for Margery grows, but societal expectations and family pressures create obstacles. Margery, unaware of Stuart's feelings, faces her own challenges, including the death of her adoptive mother, Mrs. Morris, and the advances of Robert Bright, a local farmer. Margery's pride and sense of independence lead her to reject Robert's proposal and eventually leave Hurstley to become a companion to Lady Enid Walsh in London. In London, Margery finds solace and friendship with Lady Enid, a young invalid, and her brother, Lord Court. Meanwhile, Stuart, recovering from an accident, is manipulated by his cousin Vane Charteris, who harbors her own ambitions. Vane's deceitful actions drive a wedge between Stuart and Margery, leading to misunderstandings and heartache. The novel explores themes of love, class, and identity, as Margery navigates her place in the world and Stuart grapples with his family's expectations. The story is rich with Victorian-era social commentary and the complexities of human relationships, ultimately questioning the true nature of love and the societal constraints that challenge it.

By Bertha M. Clay · First published 1902 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance, Adventure Fiction · 30 chapters

Contents

More by Bertha M. Clay