The Eldest Son

"The Eldest Son" by Archibald Marshall is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around the Clinton family, particularly the eldest son, Dick Clinton, as they navigate family dynamics, responsibilities, and matters of marriage and succession in a rural English setting. Themes involving duty, tradition, and personal choices are likely explored through the interactions of the family members and their relationships with the characters who surround them. The opening of the novel introduces us to Squire Clinton, who is discontented about his eldest son, Dick, approaching his mid-thirties without any thought of marriage. The Squire expresses concerns about ensuring a future heir for their estate, Kencote, and discusses this with his wife, Mrs. Clinton. Through their conversation, we learn about the family's eldest son and other children, introducing their personalities and dynamics within the household. Additionally, Miss Bird, the governess, is revealed to be leaving the family to attend to her sick sister, setting up a backdrop for change within the home. This conversation establishes the foundation for the unfolding family drama centered around duty and the search for love amidst tradition. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Arthur Hammond Marshall, better known by his pen name Archibald Marshall, was an English author, publisher and journalist whose novels were particularly popular in the United States. He published over 50 books and was recognised as a realist in his writing style, and was considered by some as a successor to Anthony Trollope. Educated at Cambridge University, he was later made an honorary Doctor of Letters by Yale University. He travelled widely and made numerous notable acquaintances.