Young Dr. Rider lived in the new quarter of Carlingford: had he aimed at a reputation in society, he could not possibly have done a more foolish thing; but such was not his leading motive. The young man, being but young, aimed at a practice. He was not particular in the mean time as to the streets in which his patients dwelt. A new house, gazing with all its windows over a brick-field, was as interesting to the young surgeon as if it had been one...

The Perpetual Curate is a novel written by Margaret Oliphant and originally published in 1863. It is the fifth of seven works set in the delightful country town of Carlingford. This witty, entertaining novel has remained one of Mrs. Oliphant's most popular. The story is about Frank Wentworth, the perpetual curate in the Anglican church. The story revolves around Frank and his family, his love for Lucy Wodeworth, and at least one mysterious visitor...

It is natural to suppose that the arrival of the new Rector was a rather exciting event for Carlingford. It is a considerable town, it is true, nowadays, but then there are no alien activities to disturb the place-no manufactures, and not much trade. And there is a very respectable amount of very good society at Carlingford. To begin with, it is a pretty place-mild, sheltered, not far from town; and naturally its very reputation for good society increases...