The Lost Heir

A young protagonist becomes caught up in a long series of adventures after a violent incident separates him from his guardians; the narrative moves from dramatic animal encounters and overseas voyages to urban hazards such as gambling dens and imposture. Clues about a disputed inheritance lead to searches through marshes, encounters with gypsies and friends who aid or betray him, medical crises, legal complications over a will, and social scenes including dinners and the theatre. Gradually the scattered threads converge through daring rescues, exposures, and letters from abroad, producing a decisive resolution of identity and entitlement.