In Connection with the De Willoughby Claim

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

25810

Title

In Connection with the De Willoughby Claim

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set in the sweltering heat of Talbot's Cross-roads, this novel follows Big Tom D'Willerby, a wealthy recluse who champions a government land claim for his adopted daughter and her beloved nephew. Blending rustic Southern dialect with poignant romance and social commentary, the story explores themes of love, redemption, and the resilience of the human spirit against bureaucratic obstacles.

Summary up to 500 words

Set in the stifling heat of Hamlin County, Frances Hodgson Burnett's *In Connection with the De Willoughby Claim* introduces Big Tom D'Willerby, a portly, indolent man who runs a general store and post office at Talbot's Cross-roads. Though seemingly lazy and surrounded by gossip regarding his mysterious wealth, Tom is the heart of the mountain community. His life changes with the arrival of Mr. Stamps, who brings news of a woman and child, sparking local curiosity. The narrative quickly focuses on the 'De Willoughby Claim,' a government land dispute championed by Tom. He advocates for the claimants: a young, beautiful girl named Sheba and her nephew, Rupert. Tom's motivation is revealed to be deeply personal; he fights for the happiness of two young people he loves, hoping to secure their future against a hostile government. The story alternates between the rustic life of the mountain community and the political machinations in Washington, D.C., where Tom's friend, the Reverend John Baird, lobbies for the claim. Tension mounts as the past threatens to destroy the present. A shocking revelation occurs when a man from Tom's past, linked to a tragic death twenty years prior, appears, causing despair for Tom's friend, Lucien Latimer. The narrative confronts the weight of secrets and the possibility of atonement as Latimer realizes the man he feared was the very friend he had lost, who had hidden a secret about Margery to protect her. Ultimately, fortune turns. Tom successfully secures the claim, allowing Sheba and Rupert to marry and return to their mountain home. The novel concludes with a celebration of love and justice. The newlyweds walk through a blossoming garden, safe and happy, while Tom watches the moon, content that the young couple has received a fair show and found their happiness. The story serves as a testament to the power of love, the redemptive nature of community, and the triumph of justice over bureaucratic obstruction.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/25810.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg25810.epub

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2026-07-08 15:08 UTC

Categories

• Fiction
• United States -- Social life and customs -- 19th century