The Mysteries of the Court of London

Lady Saxondale's Crimes, Volume XIII Volume XIII of this serial narrative presents a domestic melodrama featuring the aristocratic Saxondale household and neighboring gentry. The featured installment opens with "The Thoroughbreds," depicting a dangerous equestrian exploit at Saxondale Castle. Lord Harold Staunton, urged on by Mr. Hawkshaw's demonstrations of horsemanship with a spirited horse, insists on attempting a high gate jump despite warnings from his sister Fiorina and aunt Lady Macdonald. Though Harold initially clears the gate expertly, he is thrown and falls into the field, injuring himself—though the squire and family quickly determine no bones are broken. The narrative continues across thirty-six chapters treating romantic entanglements, mysterious correspondence, legal proceedings, and complex social machinations involving characters including Lady Everton, a Spaniard, and various aristocratic suitors. Illustrated with photogravure plates depicting scenes including a conservatory encounter and London landmarks.