Eben Rhymer's name has been sullied since childhood, because his father was in prison. Eben is now grown, going to sea, his goal to "come back with a name no man shall scoff at". He leaves behind his poor, hard-working mother Jean, and the young woman he loves, who seems out of reach. This story tells of all three, but is especially about his mother, who is determined to see his dreams come true.
Biographical and other notes
This little story is probably based on one of the many true tales of Fife told to Mrs Oliphant by her mother.
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