The Argosy, Vol. IX, May 2, 1870

This installment, Part the Second of "Bessy Rane" (by the author of "East Lynne"), depicts domestic life one year after Bessy's marriage to Dr. Oliver Rane. The narrative centers on Dr. Rane's professional and financial struggles: his medical practice barely supports the household, a published medical book has generated no returns, and a rival surgeon, Seeley, has captured the practice of the upper classes. Dr. Rane remains tormented by a fatal mistake—writing a disastrous letter that cost someone his life—and fears discovery haunts him daily, evidenced by suspicious observers including Mrs. Gass and Jelly. Seeking escape, he contemplates relocating to London, having declined an offer to join Dr. Jones's practice in New York due to insufficient capital. Meanwhile, Bessy manages finances shrewdly, cherishes her modest home, and secretly grieves her childlessness while supporting her husband's emigration hopes. The section ends with Dr. Rane called to attend the Pierson family, typical of his unprofitable patients.