
Set against the mist‑shrouded streets of nineteenth‑century Glasgow, the story follows a striking young minister whose sermons captivate a city steeped in industry and faith. His charismatic presence draws both reverence and envy, while the bustling shipyards and countless churches form a vivid backdrop to his private world. At home, the minister’s quiet evenings with his daughter Marion reveal a tender side that contrasts sharply with his public persona.
When a seemingly ordinary June night brings a mysterious visitor to his parlor, the household’s routine is subtly unsettled. The gentle glow of the hearth and the familiar comforts of a well‑appointed sitting room become the stage for delicate tensions and unspoken desires. As loyalties are tested and old secrets stir, the narrative weaves together love, duty, and the fierce pull of ambition, inviting listeners to linger in a world where truth, like water, refuses to stand still.
Language
en
Duration
~6 hours (399K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Katherine Ward, Mary Meehan and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive/American Libraries.)
Release date
2011-06-27
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1831–1919
Known for sweeping historical fiction and a remarkably resilient life story, this Victorian-era novelist turned personal tragedy into a long and successful writing career. Her books often blend strong-willed characters, careful research, and a deep interest in faith, family, and place.
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