Clara

Basil

Basil is engaged to Clara, but their relationship is strained by his secret past and her growing suspicion and jealousy.

Ralph

Clara and Ralph are polite acquaintances, but Clara often uses Ralph to gather information about Basil's activities.

Margaret Sherwin

Clara sees Margaret as a romantic rival for Basil's affection, and their interactions are tense and competitive.

Basil

Basil is engaged to Clara, but their relationship is strained by his secret past and her growing suspicion and jealousy.

Ralph

Clara and Ralph are polite acquaintances, but Clara often uses Ralph to gather information about Basil's activities.

Ralph

Clara and Ralph are polite acquaintances, but Clara often uses Ralph to gather information about Basil's activities.

Margaret Sherwin

Clara sees Margaret as a romantic rival for Basil's affection, and their interactions are tense and competitive.

Basil Part I

A woman Basil avoids, who later visits him in his lodging.

II

Basil's younger sister, mentioned as part of the family.

III

Basil's sister, treated with old-fashioned gallantry by their father.

IV

Basil's sister, deeply loved and cherished by him, the focus of his emotional outpouring.

V

Basil's sister, described as gentle, kind, and influential, with hidden depths of feeling.

VI

Basil's sister, weary of London gaieties, longs for the country, and takes charge of arranging Basil's study.

VII

Finds Basil pale and anxious, and notices his changed demeanor.

VIII

Mentioned as having returned from a ball and having set Basil's manuscript in order, showing her care for him.

IX

Mentioned as a possible source of a carriage, but Basil avoids using hers.

XI

Basil avoids her when he returns home, feeling a sense of humiliation for the first time as he hides his secret from his sister.

XII

Plans a surprise of new bookcases for Basil, shows anxiety and love, and offers her support and trust.

I

Subject of Margaret's inquiries; her appearance and wardrobe are of great interest.

V

Sends Basil a letter urging him to visit, expressing concern about their father's unease and the potential for a serious estrangement.

VI

Basil privately informs her that he will share his long-treasured secret with her the next day before he leaves.

I

Basil's sister, who nurses him back to health and offers comfort.

II

Visits Basil, urges him to confess to their father, and shows concern for his well-being.

III

Offers Basil encouragement and support before his meeting with their father, promising to act as their mother would have.

VI

Described by Ralph as being in a state of extreme distress over Basil's situation, having extracted a promise from Ralph to help.

VIII

Seen from a distance in the garden, distressed by her father's displeasure over her visit to Basil.

Journal

Basil's sister, whose memory and keepsake (a bookmarker) provide him comfort and hope.

Letter II

The young lady at the grand house, sister of the sick gentleman; initially pale and sad, then overcome with emotion upon hearing the news.

Letter III

Basil's sister, who lives with him at Lanreath Cottage and is described as a noble and devoted companion.