The Argosy, Vol. 27

Called to the Rescue, Argosy, May 1879 Chapter XIII of this serial novel depicts Adela Granard and her young ward Emily Stormount settling into comfortable lodgings with Mrs. Keith, a former London servant turned landlady. Mrs. Keith's house near a county town accommodates various lodgers, including the scholarly Archdeacon Burleigh, whose vast book collection fills the premises. Emily adjusts to their new home with visits from family friends Lewis Frankland and Kate Combermere. The narrative introduces complications: Emily's stepfather, the Professor, has appeared in the neighborhood seeking the child, claiming her dying mother sent an urgent message. Kate's father intercepted him and refuses to divulge their address. Paul, a servant, tracks the Professor to the Green Rushes inn. Mrs. Keith, entrusted with their situation, responds with motherly sympathy and support against this perceived threat to the young charge.