The Duke's Daughter; and, The Fugitives; vol. 1/3

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"The Duke's Daughter; and The Fugitives; vol. 1/3" by Mrs. Oliphant is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Lady Jane Altamont, the daughter of the Duke of Billingsgate, exploring her upbringing, family dynamics, and the societal expectations placed upon her. The novel's opening delves into the contrasting characters of her parents, particularly the pride and expectations of her father and the sensible nature of her mother, setting the stage for Jane's challenges in navigating her own path amidst these influences. The opening of the narrative introduces the reader to Lady Jane's parents, particularly the Duchess, who is characterized as a sensible woman balancing the lavish expectations of her noble status with the intricate reality of their financial situation. The Duke is portrayed as proud and inflexible, often concerned with social status over practicalities, which contrasts sharply with the Duchess's more pragmatic outlook. As Lady Jane begins to grapple with her own identity and the expectations of those around her, including dwindling matrimonial prospects, the stage is set for her emotional journey. The narrative hints at her potential internal conflict between desire, duty, and the whims of her father's pride, foreshadowing the romantic tensions that will unfold as the story progresses.