Contraband; Or, A Losing Hazard

"Contraband; Or, A Losing Hazard" by G. J. Whyte-Melville is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows Mrs. Lascelles, an attractive and independent widow, as she navigates complex relationships, particularly with Sir Henry Hallaton, a twice-widowed man who captures her interest despite social complications and his notorious reputation. The intriguing dynamics among these characters set the stage for themes of love, betrayal, and social stature amidst a backdrop of hunting and high society. The opening of the novel introduces Mrs. Lascelles after a day's hunting, where she reflects on her past experiences and current feelings. As the skies darken, she encounters Sir Henry Hallaton, with whom she shares a confidential conversation that hints at her complex feelings towards him. Meanwhile, Sir Henry is grappling with his own romantic failures and societal expectations. The narrative expertly weaves in suspense and character depth, suggesting an impending exploration of both the romantic entanglements and the consequences of their choices. The atmosphere is charged with tension as Mrs. Lascelles contemplates her affection for Sir Henry while the rain begins to fall, signaling a shift in both the weather and her fortunes. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

George John Whyte-Melville was a Scottish novelist much concerned with field sports, and also a poet. He took a break in the mid-1850s to serve as an officer of Turkish irregular cavalry in the Crimean War.