Character guide

Arthur Lawford

major

Also known as Lawford, Mr. Arthur Lawford, Mr. Lawford

The protagonist, a man returning to his home and family after a long absence.

Sheila

major

Also known as Poor old Sheila

Arthur's wife, who must adjust to his return and the changes in him.

Mrs. Lawford

supporting

Also known as Lawford, the old Lawford

Arthur's mother, a strong-willed matriarch of the Lawford family.

Herbert

supporting

Also known as Mr. Herbert, Mr. Herbert Herbert

Arthur's brother, who has been managing the family affairs.

Mr. Bethany

supporting

Also known as Bethany, old Bethany

A local clergyman and friend of the Lawford family.

Grisel

minor

Also known as poor old Grisel

A servant or dependent in the Lawford household, often anxious.

Alicia

minor

Also known as Alice, Miss Alice, dear good Alicia, Poor Alice

A young woman connected to the Lawford family, possibly a relative.

Mr. Danton

supporting

Also known as Danton

A mysterious stranger who arrives in the village.

Ada

minor

Also known as worriting poor Ada

A servant in the Lawford household, prone to worry.

Dr. Simon

minor

Also known as Simon

The local doctor, attending to the Lawford family.

Craik

minor

Also known as Mr. Craik

A solicitor or business associate of the Lawfords.

Nicholas Sabathier

minor

Also known as Sabathier, de Sabathier, Nicholas de Sabathier

A figure from Arthur's past, possibly connected to his disappearance.

Dr. Ferguson

minor

Also known as Ferguson, the mysterious Dr. Ferguson

A doctor involved in Arthur's case or a related mystery.

Miss Sinnet

minor

Also known as Sinnet, outraged Miss Sinnet

A local woman, possibly a governess or teacher.

Mrs. Lovat

minor

A neighbor or acquaintance of the Lawford family.

Mr. Critchett

minor

Also known as Critchett

A minor character, possibly a tradesman or official.

Mary Lawford

minor

Also known as Mary

Arthur's daughter, a young girl.

Quain

minor

A character with a brief but notable appearance.

Bettie Lovat

minor

Also known as Bettie

Daughter of Mrs. Lovat, a young woman in the village.

Wedderburn

minor

Also known as Mr. Wedderburn, cautious old Wedderburn

An older gentleman, possibly a friend of the family.

James Fortescue

minor

Also known as James, old James, Jimmie Fortescue, Jimmie

A friend or acquaintance of Arthur's from before his return.

Fanny Urquhart

minor

A woman mentioned in connection with past events.

Miss Bennett

minor

Also known as Bennett

A minor character, possibly a visitor or relative.

Sallie

minor

A servant or young woman in the household.

Mrs. Gull

minor

A local woman, possibly a housekeeper or neighbor.