Miss Maitland, Private Secretary

A social drama threaded with light mystery traces the disruption of a wealthy household when Chapman Price leaves, provoking gossip about Suzanne Price and prompting the Janneys to intervene. Alternating chapters entitled Molly's story provide a personal counterpoint to episodes of letters, secret motives, detectives and a conspicuous theft, which pull a diligent private secretary into unfolding intrigue. The narrative advances through schemes, searches on land and water, and strategic revelations, gradually untangling loyalties, misunderstandings and concealed agendas. Concerns about reputation, the gap between public rumor and private truth, and the work of uncovering facts shape the book's steady blend of social observation and suspense.