He that will not when he may; vol. II

"He that will not when he may; vol. II" by Mrs. Oliphant is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds primarily around the Markham family, particularly focusing on the young girls, Bell and Marie, who are left in charge of their home during a family crisis. As they navigate the sudden departure of their elders, their curiosity leads them to an unexpected visitor, Mr. Augustus Markham Gaveston, a supposed relation whose true intentions remain unclear. The opening of the volume introduces a significant moment at Markham Chase, as the children experience a mix of solemnity and excitement when they are left alone. Bell, the elder sister, takes on the role of caretaker, trying to maintain order amidst the uncertainty. The arrival of Mr. Gaveston adds intrigue, as he expresses a keen interest in the family, prompting both curiosity and caution from the children. The dynamics of their interactions hint at deeper family connections and potential secrets that will unravel throughout the story, setting the stage for a compelling exploration of familial relationships and social expectations. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Margaret Oliphant Wilson Oliphant was a Scottish novelist and historical writer, who usually wrote as Mrs. Oliphant. Her fictional works cover "domestic realism, the historical novel and tales of the supernatural".