Vogelvrij

Summary

Mavis Keeves is the daughter of a man who by reckless speculations, prompted by Sir Harry Winderbank, comes to ruin and death. She is loved by Harry Winderbank, the baronet's son, but her hatred of the father prevents her appreciating the son. She leaves her native town and takes a situation in a London drapery establishment, where she attracts the attention of Lord Kegworth, who uses every possible means to get her into his power. She is repeatedly rescued from danger by a humble workman. Ultimately Harry Winderbank gets her to return to her native town, where she renews acquaintance with Charlie Percival, a reckless spendthrift, who persuades her to elope with him. A child is born, and Percival, tiring of Mavis, deserts her and marries Victoria Davitt, an heiress, in order to secure a competence from his father. Mavis suffers great poverty and much tribulation, including the death of her child. When a drunken tenant sets fire to the humble dwelling of Mavis, she is rescued from the burning building just before it collapses, by Harry. Mavis at last recognises Harry's true worth and he, forgiving all her past, marries her. Together they begin a new life, chastened by the trials through which they have both passed.