The Argosy, Vol. 41

Lady Valeria, Chapter XXX: "Down at Altcar"

This serialized Victorian domestic novel follows Eustace Stannard, a clergyman, who visits his family estate at Altcar Court. His father, Lord Altcar (formerly Mr. Redgrave Stannard), retired from his promising parliamentary career after a railway disaster crippled Eustace's mother. She now sits speechless, paralyzed, her brilliant mind trapped in an immobile body—she communicates only through her expressive eyes. Lord Altcar tenderly maintains estates and gardens while his cousin Mary Liddell provides constant companionship. Eustace arrives carrying news of his brother Randolf's return with wife and newborn daughter. However, Eustace harbors an undisclosed personal matter he intends to discuss with his father after dinner, clearly involving his future prospects and income.