When his sister dies in childbirth, John Barton blames her impulsive sister, Esther, whose mysterious disappearance broke her heart. Before vanishing, Esther had vowed "to make a lady" of her niece Mary--words that stir the girl"s ambition. Determined to escape poverty, Mary rejects the love of dependable Jem Wilson for Harry Carson, a rich man who embodies everything her father hates. As a love story and as social commentary, "Mary Barton" deserves to reclaim its once-wide audience and be heard again.