The narrative unfolds in a rural English setting during a time of political upheaval, focusing on Christopher Swetman, a yeoman living on the outskirts of King's-Hintock village. The story begins with Swetman’s sleepless night, stirred by rumors of the rightful King of England's return from exile. As he contemplates the situation, a mysterious stranger arrives at his home seeking shelter. The stranger, a tall man in cavalry attire, is weary and muddy, claiming to have lost his way. Swetman, despite his suspicions about the stranger's identity, offers him hospitality. The stranger is given food, clothing, and a place to rest. As the day progresses, news arrives of a battle in which the Duke's forces have been defeated, and the Duke himself has fled. The stranger expresses sorrow over the outcome, hinting at a deeper connection to the events unfolding. The stranger's demeanor and interactions with Swetman's daughters, Grace and Leonard, create tension. One evening, Swetman witnesses the stranger attempting to kiss Leonard, prompting his anger and a demand for the stranger to leave. The stranger, acknowledging his misstep, agrees to depart but insists on keeping the borrowed clothes, leaving behind a gold snuffbox and a sword of significant value. After the stranger's departure, Swetman learns that the Duke has been captured and executed, leading him to regret his harsh treatment of the man he now suspects was the Duke himself. A week later, Swetman experiences a strange visitation at night when the stranger returns to retrieve his belongings, confirming his identity as the Duke. This encounter leaves Swetman bewildered, as he grapples with the implications of having sheltered a fugitive royal. The story concludes with Swetman reflecting on the events and the rumors surrounding the Duke's fate. The narrative is steeped in themes of loyalty, honor, and the complexities of human relationships against a backdrop of political turmoil. The tale is passed down through generations, becoming a family legend that intertwines personal and historical narratives, leaving readers to ponder the nature of truth and the consequences of choices made in times of crisis.
By Thomas Hardy · First published 1903 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, Drama