Three sisters are married, another living away. Now is her chance to emerge from their shadows. Becoming more confident, she begins to make new friends.
Among them are a number of eligible young men. But none of them leads to a marriage and security for Mary, as her family members intervene. Fortunately, her heart is untouched by them.
After her father's death, Mary and her mother move to a cottage, where her mother continues her complaints. Lydia returns, and elopes with another of Mary's suitors. Only after her mother's death is Mary finally able to look forward to a happy future.
