Bought and Paid For; From the Play of George Broadhurst

"Bought and Paid For" by Arthur Hornblow is a story drawn from George Broadhurst's play that thrusts us into the heart of the Blaine family's crisis as they brace for John Blaine's looming death. The story sets a dramatic tone as we meet Mrs. Blaine and her daughters, Fanny and Virginia, awaiting news from Dr. Everett about John, a lawyer who dedicated his life to others but left his family with little. Tension rises as the doctor delivers grim news, highlighting the family's looming financial struggles after their loss. The daughters, each with distinct personalities, grapple with the emotional pain of losing their father while confronting a challenging future, particularly as their mother struggles with grief and responsibility. The narrative begins with the themes such as grief, family duty, and financial hardship, hinting at deeper explorations of societal expectations and women's roles during personal and economic crisis.