Summary:
"Roger Kyffin's Ward" by William Henry Giles Kingston is a historical novel written in the early 19th century. Set against the backdrop of a time of panic in London during 1797, the story revolves around the character Stephen Coppinger, a merchant facing a crisis, and Roger Kyffin, his trusted clerk, who navigates through the tumultuous events affecting their lives and the broader society. The book explores themes of loyalty, financial struggle, and the complexities of social relationships in a time of national distress. At the start of the novel, London is turmoil as reports of a naval mutiny and international threats flood the city, creating widespread panic among its citizens. Amid this chaos, we follow Stephen Coppinger, who exudes calm despite the storm enveloping him, and his loyal clerk, Roger Kyffin, who is tasked with securing financial support for his employer’s precarious business situation. The opening chapters provide a vivid depiction of the social climate of the time, detailing the various characters affected by the events and setting the stage for the unfolding drama of their intertwined lives. As Kyffin works to assist Coppinger while grappling with his own relationships, particularly concerning his affections for Fanny Ashton, the narrative introduces a rich tapestry of intrigue and emotional depth. (This is an automatically generated summary.)