The Missioner

"The Missioner" by E. Phillips Oppenheim is a story from the early 1900s that follows Victor Macheson, a young missioner determined to ignite spirituality in a town that appears happy but lacks depth. He faces challenges, especially from Wilhelmina, the mistress of Thorpe-Hatton, who sees his mission as unwanted interference, especially when she is already weary and bored. Wilhelmina and Mr. Hurd are discussing very important estate business that hints at a deeper desire in her life that seems unobtainable. As Macheson begins holding religious meetings he finds disapproval from the villagers and Wilhelmina. This sparks a battle of wills that explores the differences in social class, the idea of purpose, and the difficulty of finding spiritual connection in a world that is calm on the surface.