Lord Frederick’s Return
1816. After the death of his Indian bibi (mistress) in childbirth, Lord Frederick finds ‘India had lost its savour’ and decides to take their daughter home to England. But how will he adjust to conditions there after so long an absence? And how will his precocious four-year-old daughter be received? Despite the traumatic experience of attending the sensational trial at which his younger brother is found guilty of murder only to die of a heart attack in the dock, and the social stigma it attaches to his family, Frederick adapts pretty well, thanks in no small measure to the kindness and support he is fortunate to receive from new-made friends and some family members; and he finds love again with Susannah Ponsonby, whose mother was Indian. Aristocratic males have definite advantages, especially since ‘sufficient funds may compensate for all manner of deficiencies.’
But while the more open-minded are charmed by his daughter’s outspokenness, sticklers for convention consider it a sign of ill breeding. At the vicarage sewing circle, ‘where ladies from both sets traded polite barbs while plying their needles for the benefit of the poor,’ Mrs. Lowe declares, what else can one expect of those who are not only half-castes but illegitimate? This is a thoughtful and involving exploration of the challenges that faced expats and their children after an extended absence abroad, and the incisive satire against the snobbery, prejudice, and double standards which threaten progress towards the happy ending is a delight. Highly recommended.
