An Old Man's Love

The story revolves around William Whittlestaff, a 50-year-old man who becomes the guardian of Mary Lawrie, an orphaned young woman. As he cares for her, he unexpectedly falls in love, despite her heart belonging to John Gordon, who is pursuing wealth in the Kimberley diamond fields. The novel explores themes of love, longing, and the complexities of relationships, set against the backdrop of Trollope's own struggles with health during its creation.