A fatal duel in France reshapes Lewis Romayne’s life by imprinting deep guilt and fear upon his mind. Returning to England he remains haunted by memory and the cries of the dead man’s brother. His meeting with Stella Eyrecourt offers emotional relief yet also exposes his inner fragility. Religious anxiety grows as thoughts of sin and redemption dominate his conscience. Though he appears free his life has already become vulnerable to outside influence.
