Colonel Quaritch, V.C.

by H. Rider Haggard

First published 1889

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3.7(60)

Retired soldier Harold Quaritch settles in rural Norfolk and falls in love with Ida de la Molle, whose father is close to losing the ancient family estate. Their future is threatened by Edward Cossey, a wealthy banker who uses the family’s debts and Ida’s sense of duty to press her toward a marriage she does not want.

A local legend concerning treasure hidden during the English Civil War offers one possible escape, but adultery, blackmail and murder complicate the search. Haggard blends country-house romance with mystery and social criticism, contrasting inherited honour with the financial power reshaping late Victorian rural society.