AustLit

English tale of jealousy and contrived death among the aristocracy. A lady's maid tells of her mistress' engagement to burnt crippled hard Lord Strange for his money. The Lord's jealousy is stirred by his handsome secretary whom he introduces to his betrothed to test her. The secretary is accused of stealing his employer's jewels, is tried and convicted, and hangs himself in his cell to avoid transportation. After their marriage the Lady discovers the jewels in her husband's strong room, accuses him and he dies of a burst blood vessel. Interesting tone - detachment of the Lady from romance is unusual. (PB)