Oswald Cray: A Novel

"Oswald Cray: A Novel" by Mrs. Henry Wood is a fictional work written in the late 19th century. This narrative introduces us to a confluence of characters and social dynamics set against the backdrop of the town of Hallingham, focusing particularly on the lives of Dr. Davenal and Oswald Cray. The themes of societal status, personal ambition, and the weight of family legacy are woven into the lives of its characters, hinting at emotional conflicts and interpersonal relationships that will unfold throughout the story. At the start of "Oswald Cray," we are introduced to Hallingham, a town experiencing a tumultuous change due to the arrival of the railway, which causes nostalgia for its lost beauty among the older residents. The opening chapter primarily centers around Dr. Davenal, a respected surgeon who is devoted to his patients and is seen grappling with both the physical suffering of others and his own personal losses. The narrative sets the stage for the interaction between Dr. Davenal and Oswald Cray, unveiling the doctor's concerns for his daughter Caroline, and a budding romance with Mark Cray, who aspires to marry her. The plot hints at deeper familial ties and societal prejudices that may complicate these new relationships, establishing a rich environment of character development and social commentary. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Ellen Price was an English novelist better known as Mrs. Henry Wood. She is best remembered for her 1861 novel East Lynne. Many of her books sold well internationally and were widely read in the United States. In her time, she surpassed Charles Dickens in fame in Australia.