The Old Red and a Surly Squire in Berkshire Village
Mark Goldsmith, a surly Berkshire squire with a strict housekeeper, runs a large farm at the Old Red while his daughter Mary forms a bond with a young minister. Mary's gentle nature clashes with her father's stern temper, and a secret hope for companionship grows as Mary quietly plans to change their life and test her father's limits. The minister pursues Mary through cautious meetings, while villagers whisper about affections and appearances at the Old Red countryside home.