The Indian Princess

THE INDIAN PRINCESS This dime novel by Mrs. Ann S. Stephens (serialized by Beadle and Adams) opens in colonial Quebec, where Governor Count Frontenac grieves his wife's poisoning. The household contains two young women: Adele, his deceased wife's daughter from a previous marriage, and Katharine, his half-Indian daughter with a Native woman now deceased. The governor, emerging from mourning, arranges for both girls to attend the Ursuline convent school together. Adele, fair and open-hearted, immediately befriends the striking but reserved Katharine, who harbors complex emotions—pride in her heritage, jealousy of Adele's favored position, and longing for her father's affection. Katharine resolves to match Adele's accomplishments in studies and refinement despite her disdain for such pursuits. The narrative details their contrasting personalities and budding relationship within the governor's castle.