The Argosy, Vol. XII, September 1, 1871

This issue of The Argost (September 1, 1871) features "Dene Hollow," serialized fiction by the author of East Lynne. The narrative follows Sir Dene Clanwaring, a seventy-year-old country gentleman tormented by recent tragedies. Two years prior, his beloved granddaughter Margaret died in a carriage accident near Dene Hollow—her neck broken after jumping from a frightened pony-cart—an event Sir Dene interprets as divine retribution for an unspecified past wrong involving a widow named Barber. More recently, his grandson Tom departed under accusation of theft and moral impropriety involving "a young lady at the Trailing Indian." Squire Arde returns from Bristol with news vindicating Tom, explaining the money was likely stolen through a window. Sir Dene, grief-stricken and lonely, expresses profound regret and longing for Tom's return, though pride prevents immediate reconciliation with Lady Lydia present.