In a picturesque New England college town, the newly elected president of the University of Corinth, John Waring, faces the challenges of his position amidst a divided faculty. The conservative Waring, respected for his character and intellect, has garnered both admiration and resentment due to his traditionalist views. As he prepares for his upcoming marriage to Emily Bates, a widow with ties to the university, rumors of dissent begin to circulate, suggesting that his election may be contested. Emily, concerned for Waring's reputation and future, urges him to investigate the rumors, while Waring remains lighthearted about the potential trouble. Their interactions reveal a budding romance, marked by playful banter and mutual respect. However, the underlying tension of the brewing conflict within the university looms over their relationship. As Waring navigates his new responsibilities and the complexities of his impending marriage, he must also confront the possibility of opposition from those who favor a more modern approach to university governance. The story intertwines themes of love, ambition, and the struggle for acceptance in a community steeped in tradition, setting the stage for a mystery that threatens to disrupt both Waring's personal and professional life.
By Carolyn Wells · First published 1905 · Genre: Mystery, Crime, Suspense · 18 chapters