The Argosy, Vol. 30

This serial installment concludes the mystery at Heron Dyke. Miss Ella Winter discovers that her uncle, the Squire, died in February—not May as reported—and that servants Aaron Stone, his grandson Hubert, and Dr. Jago had conspired to fraudulently extend his life past his birthday by impersonating him with disguises and wigs. The deception was originally intended to preserve the estate for Ella's inheritance rather than let it pass to distant relative Denison. Upon learning the truth, Ella resolves to relinquish Heron Dyke to its rightful heir at Nunham Priors, despite Aaron's protests and her own financial consequences. Her fiancé Edward Conroy, a newspaper reporter, supports her decision. The narrative emphasizes themes of honor, duty, and moral rectitude over material gain.