019 - Chapter XIX

When the prestigious position of ‘Lady Superintendent’ opens up at the Commercial and Technical College for South West England, the calm and competent Pauline Marchrose emerges as the top candidate. This is welcomed news for Sir Julian, the college director, who holds her diligence and skills in high regard. However, Mark Easter, Sir Julian’s agent, finds himself captivated by Pauline, his admiration quickly turning into romantic feelings. Yet Mark is already bound to a wife, albeit in a loveless marriage. Complicating matters further, Sir Julian’s wife, Lady Edna Rossiter, uncovers that Pauline is the same woman who jilted her paralyzed cousin, Clarence, after his tragic accident. Driven by a manipulative and self-righteous nature, Lady Edna, uninterested in the truth, begins a whispering campaign against Pauline. In the close-knit community, this sparks an atmosphere of suspicion and tension, jeopardizing Paulines future. - Summary by Helen Taylor