Introduction

There is no more distinguished family in England than the Blantyres of Glenallan. Its very name is a sufficient passport into the best society.

Nevertheless, those who know shrug their shoulders, glance significantly at one another, and leave the rest to discreet silence.

Be that as it may, however, the Blantyres are still important people in their own neighbourhood. Their estates are as extensive as ever, and their revenues have suffered no diminution, even in these democratic days, when few old families can boast of the power and influence they wielded a hundred years ago...