A Sister of the Red Cross: A Tale of the South African War

Sister Mollie Hepworth is a freshly qualified nurse, bright‑eyed and steadfast, whose dream is to tend soldiers on the front lines. After rigorous training at London and Netley hospitals, she finally secures a brief respite in London, reuniting with her beloved cousin Kitty for a fortnight of laughter, music, and whispered plans. Their lively conversations hint at looming responsibilities, as Mollie’s ambition to serve in the South African conflict begins to surface.

The story captures the intimate world of Victorian nursing—its discipline, camaraderie, and the quiet heroism that fuels it—while gently unveiling the personal ties that motivate Mollie’s resolve. As rumors of war grow louder, the sisters’ bond becomes both a comfort and a catalyst, setting the stage for Mollie’s courageous journey into the harsh realities of battlefield medicine.