Munsey's Magazine, September 1919

# Munsey's Magazine, September 1919

The Wild Fawn by Mary Imlay Taylor, illustrated by R. L. Lambdin, concerns William Henry Carter's shocking return home from Japan and Paris with an unexpected wife: Fanchon la Fare, a French woman described as small with eyes like a wild fawn. The story opens with his anxious mother discovering his letter announcing the marriage, dismaying the family because William had been engaged to Virginia Denbigh. His father is furious that William married after knowing Fanchon only three months, while his sister Emily details French marriage laws requiring posted bans and legal procedures. Daniel, the second son, reveals emotional turmoil when discussing Virginia—though avoiding direct admission. His sudden departure from breakfast, coupled with Emily's observation that Daniel harbors romantic feelings for Virginia himself, suggests William's hasty marriage has disrupted complex domestic relationships. The narrative explores family tension and conflicting loyalties surrounding the unexpected union.