The story revolves around Lettice Tremarten, a young woman living in a secluded Welsh homestead with her father, Owen Tremarten. Lettice is portrayed as a lively and spirited girl, deeply connected to her natural surroundings and the animals she cares for. Her life takes a turn when her aunts, Rosamond and Judith, visit and suggest she should experience a London season to become more sophisticated. Lettice's father reluctantly agrees, and she is taken to London, where she becomes the debutante of the season, enjoying the social whirl and attracting attention. Among her new acquaintances are Captain Ivie McCormack and his sister Lilla, who have ulterior motives. Ivie, burdened by debts, is encouraged by Lilla to pursue Lettice for her fortune. Despite her aunts' disapproval, Lettice is charmed by Ivie, unaware of his true intentions. The McCormacks devise a plan to compromise Lettice's reputation, hoping to force a marriage. During an archery event at Lord Lochiel's estate, Ivie lures Lettice away under false pretenses, claiming Lilla is injured and needs her. Lettice, trusting and compassionate, follows him, only to find herself in a remote cottage, realizing too late the trap set for her. As the night unfolds, Lettice overhears Ivie and Lilla's conversation, revealing their deceit. Determined to escape, she bravely flees into the night, eventually finding refuge at a manse, where she is taken in by the kind-hearted Dr. Forbes and his daughter Maggie. Meanwhile, Lettice's absence causes panic among her aunts and the household at Lochiel. Dr. Herron, a family friend and Lettice's admirer, arrives and aids in the search. Upon discovering Lettice's whereabouts, he brings her back, clearing her name and exposing the McCormacks' scheme. The story concludes with Lettice returning to her father and her home, having learned valuable lessons about trust and the complexities of society. Dr. Herron, who has been steadfast in his affection, proposes to Lettice, and they marry, ensuring a happy ending for the spirited heroine.
By Catherine Louisa Pirkis · First published 1872 · Genre: Gothic Fiction, Mystery, Horror