The Yellow Flag: A Novel. Volume 1 (of 3)

"The Yellow Flag: A Novel. Volume 1 (of 3)" by Edmund Yates is a novel unfolding within the world of Victorian England, focusing on Tom Durham, a young man embarking on a new chapter as an agent in Ceylon, and Alice Claxton, his half-sister, and the cunning Pauline. The story begins with Tom getting set to depart to Ceylon with a large amount of money provided by John Claxton, Alice’s husband, but also introduces a sense of ambiguity and secrets between Tom and Alice. As Tom starts his journey, his interactions and choices hint at a darker side, bringing into question his integrity as he works with Pauline, who seems to be an accomplice in his possible schemes. The novel sets the groundwork for a story of hidden intentions, as Alice remains unaware of the complicated web of connections and potential risks that Tom's travels may bring to fruition.