The Argosy, Vol. 36

# Winifred Power (October 1883)

This serial installment, Chapter XXVIII titled "Richard's Quixotry," is set during the Paris Commune's aftermath. Winifred Power, a compassionate young woman living near working-class districts, has befriended a joiner named Anatole who participated in the Commune and now faces deportation. Her companion Martha Freake, elderly and frail, worries that Winifred's impulsive idealism will lead her into danger. Richard Dallas visits and mocks the Commune's supporters as criminal rabble; Winifred passionately defends the downtrodden, arguing that both classes bear guilt. Their heated exchange ends when Dolly arrives home. Later, Dick cryptically promises to "distinguish himself" within days. Dolly then warns Winifred that Dick harbors romantic feelings and suggests Winifred shouldn't encourage him, implying her sympathy is mere flirtation. After the Tuileries burns and order returns, Mrs. Dallas visits inquiring about Richard's whereabouts.