Guilty by Edith Nesbit (1898)

Name: Guilty
Author: Edith Nesbit

This is a story about a young woman named Mary who is accused of stealing a valuable necklace from her employer, Mrs. Oliver. The accusation leads to a dramatic confrontation in the library of the Oliver's home, where it is revealed that John, a servant who had been courting Mary, was actually the thief. John had stolen the necklace in an attempt to frame Mary and ruin her reputation so that she would be forced to marry him instead of James, whom she truly loved. The story is told from the perspective of Mary's loyal maid, who provides a detailed account of the events leading up to the confrontation and the dramatic revelations that follow. The maid's narrative voice adds a layer of authenticity and intimacy to the story, drawing the reader into the world of the Oliver household and its intricate web of relationships. Through the maid's eyes, we see the complex dynamics at play in the household, including the tensions between the servants and their employers, as well as the romantic entanglements and rivalries that drive the plot. The story is full of vivid characters, from the cunning and manipulative John to the kind-hearted and loyal James, and from the imperious Mrs. Oliver to her more level-headed husband. The climax of the story is both shocking and poignant, as John's true nature is revealed and he meets a tragic end. The aftermath of the confrontation brings a sense of closure and resolution, as Mary and James are finally able to be together without the shadow of suspicion hanging over them. The maid's narrative concludes on a note of gratitude and contentment, as she reflects on the happy outcome of the story and the lessons learned along the way.

By Edith Nesbit · First published 1898 · Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Crime · 6,031 words

First lines

IT was my first place and my last, and I don't think we should have got on in business as we have if it hadn't been for me being for six or seven years with one of the first families in the county. Though only a housemaid, you can't help learning something of their ways. At any rate, you learn what gentlefolks like, and what they can't abide. But the worst of being housemaid where there's a lot of servants kept is, that one or other or all of the men-servants is sure to be wanting to keep company with you. They have nothing else to do in their spare time, and I suppose it's handy having your sweetheart living in the house. It doesn't give you so much trouble with going out in the evening, if not fine.

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Guilty is listed on Textopian as a short story by Edith Nesbit, dated 1898 CE.

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Work type: Short story
Author: Edith Nesbit
Date: 1898 CE
Language: English
Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Crime, Drama
Length: 6,031 words
Structure: 1 section, 73 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Mystery — The narrative revolves around a crime and its investigation, leading to a resolution.
Thriller — The plot is filled with suspense, tension, and excitement, keeping readers on edge.
Crime — The story involves a criminal act and its consequences, focusing on the law enforcement perspective.
Drama — The narrative explores complex emotional and interpersonal conflicts, providing a deep exploration of character.