
A quiet, introspective portrait unfolds of a genteel Englishwoman whose world revolves around duty, family, and the unspoken expectations of her class. Through her eyes we glimpse the delicate balance between personal longing and the relentless need to serve as wife, mother, and confidante, all while the shadow of the Boer War looms over household conversations. The narrative gently reveals how grief and patriotism intertwine, shaping the choices of those left behind.
Within this intimate setting, the story follows a mother’s fierce devotion to her son Peter, whose youthful vigor and restless spirit hint at a future that may challenge the narrow confines of their lives. As she navigates the pressures of societal convention and the ache of unvoiced desires, her steadfast kindness offers a tender counterpoint to the era’s rigid norms. Listeners will find a nuanced glimpse into a world both distant and resonant, where love, loss, and quiet resilience quietly shape everyday heroism.
Language
en
Duration
~7 hours (435K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2003-12-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1866–1945
An English novelist, playwright, and children's writer who later became known as Lady Clifford, she wrote popular fiction with a sharp eye for society and relationships. Her career stretched from the late Victorian period well into the 20th century, giving her work a distinctive bridge between eras.
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