Vain oblations

"Vain Oblations" by Katharine Fullerton Gerould is an early 1900s novel that tells the story of Saxe and Mary Bradford, focusing on their love and beliefs tested by difficult times. Mary works as a missionary in Africa, facing terrible struggles that put her in danger. Her fiancé, Saxe, is determined to find her, even if it means putting himself at risk. The story begins with Saxe getting ready to go to Africa, reflecting on their shared past; he deeply loves Mary, and he struggles with the possibility that he may have lost her. He thinks about who Mary is, and how society views her as a woman from New England. The novel explores the characters' sacrifices for love and the tragic destiny that awaits them on their journey.