The Argosy, Vol. 15

"The Master of Greylands" by the author of *East Lynne* continues with Chapter IV, "Foreshadowings of Evil." Mr. Castlemaine, master of Greylands' Rest estate, experiences inexplicable premonition and minor household mishaps that trouble his superstitious nature. He recalls a past day of similar omens preceding the death of his first wife, Maria. Meanwhile, the landlord John Bent discovers his overnight guest is Anthony Castlemaine, son of the late Basil Castlemaine, who departed England years ago to France where he married, invested in silk-mills near Gap, and raised Anthony abroad. Before dying, Basil charged his son to claim the family inheritance, warning him of potential treachery from his uncles. Anthony's arrival unsettles the household. Mrs. Castlemaine discusses a governess applicant with daughter Flora, while Mr. Castlemaine grows increasingly uneasy. A mysterious visitor announces himself—Anthony Castlemaine—presenting his card and requesting to see Mr. James Castlemaine, prompting the master's alarm and curiosity about this unexpected claimant to the estate.