This novel is an example of the kind of fiction that was known as 'dime magazine' in nineteenth-century America. Ann Stephens, the author, wrote many such stories mostly aimed at female readers. In this story, Hepworth Closs, who has a chequered past, sees and instantly falls in love with Lady Clara, the heiress of a great fortune. His sister Rachel, sees this and is not happy about the situation. Lady Clara innocently dreams of Hepworth every night. What will become of them?