The complex and picturesque life which goes on in the parish of Christowell is the theme of the novel. The story begins with the garden where resides "Captain Larks," alias Mr. Arthur, who is neither Mr. Arthur nor "Captain Larks," but a mysterious soldier who renounced his good name to save one who was his brother and a fellow officer from disgrace. Misfortune has driven him into retirement, and so he lives among his flowers and fruit.

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