The Unbidden Guest

by E. W. (Ernest William) Hornung

"The Unbidden Guest" by E. W. Hornung is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the Teesdale family, particularly focusing on the spirited arrival of Miriam Oliver, the daughter of old family friends from England. The plot hints at themes of societal differences and the interactions between different social classes, with humor and emotional undercurrents as the characters navigate their relationships. The opening of the novel introduces the Teesdale family at their homestead, where Mr. Teesdale has just returned from Melbourne. His children, John William and Arabella, react with a mix of skepticism and curiosity upon learning that Miriam is coming to stay with them. As conversation unfolds, it becomes apparent that John William is resistant to the idea of an "English lady" visiting, while Arabella expresses a naive excitement regarding Miriam. The narrative progression builds up to Miriam's energetic entrance, marked by her bold personality and distinctive red hair, which immediately captivates the family, setting the stage for cultural clashes and personal dynamics throughout the story.