Joshua Haggard's daughter, Vol. 2 (of 3)

"Joshua Haggard's daughter, Vol. 2 (of 3)" by M. E. Braddon is a novel written in the late 19th century. It follows the charismatic Nonconformist minister Joshua Haggard, his innocent protégée Cynthia, and his steadfast daughter Naomi, tracing how love, faith, class, and family expectations collide in a provincial community. The story moves between chapel life and the bleak grandeur of the local squire’s house, setting up intimate conflicts as new attachments reshape old loyalties.

At the start of the novel, Joshua’s powerful preaching in Penmoyle captivates Cynthia, whose reverent gratitude blossoms into love; during a moonlit walk he proposes, asking her to reflect before deciding. Back in Combhaven, his indulgent mood advances Naomi’s engagement to Oswald Pentreath, and a storm-driven visit reveals the austere, lonely Grange and its frugal Squire, while Naomi’s aunt Judith frets over money and status. Joshua then returns unexpectedly in a post-chaise with Cynthia as his new wife, stunning both Naomi and Judith; despite shock and hurt, Naomi struggles to master her feelings and offer kindness, as the household absorbs the consequences of this sudden marriage.