The story revolves around the narrator, an old bachelor and a General, who visits his niece Justina Trevor at Durham Hall. Justina is married to Sir Harry Trevor, a man of good nature and charm. The household is filled with guests for the Christmas season, including Lady Amabel Scott, a flirtatious cousin of Sir Harry, and the Bensons, close friends of Justina. The narrative explores themes of jealousy, secrecy, and the complexities of human relationships. Justina is portrayed as deeply in love with her husband but harbors jealousy towards Lady Amabel, suspecting her of trying to win Sir Harry's affections. The General observes the interactions between the guests, noting Lady Amabel's beauty and flirtatious nature, but also the quiet demeanor of Mrs. Benson, the professor's wife. A turning point occurs when Sir Harry is fatally wounded in a shooting accident. On his deathbed, he calls out for "Pet," a mysterious figure whose identity is unknown to the General and Justina. After Sir Harry's death, Justina discovers letters addressed to her husband, signed by "Pet," which fuels her jealousy and leads to a confrontation with Lady Amabel. However, Lady Amabel denies writing the letters. The General later discovers that Mrs. Benson is the true author of the letters and the "Pet" Sir Harry called for. Despite her plain appearance, Mrs. Benson had a deep, secret connection with Sir Harry. The General chooses to keep this revelation to himself, advising Mrs. Benson to leave Durham Hall to avoid further scandal. The story concludes with the departure of the Bensons and the Scotts from Durham Hall. Justina eventually apologizes to Lady Amabel, and life at Durham Hall begins to return to normal, though the secrets and emotions uncovered during the visit leave a lasting impact on those involved.
By Florence Marryat · First published 1887 · Genre: Domestic Fiction, Mystery, Sensation Novel