Who Mary Grant is
Mary Grant is a quiet, serious young woman whose father has been missing for two years.
The children learn from a newspaper that a bottle contains a message from their father's ship. They visit Glenarvan to discover whether the damaged papers offer any hope of finding him.
What Mary Grant wants
Mary hopes to find her father alive, despite his long absence and the uncertainty of the message. She and Robert have little money and nobody else to help them when they approach Glenarvan.
Their visit makes the search personal for Glenarvan, after the British Admiralty refuses to send a ship. Lady Helena is deeply moved, and both children are welcomed aboard the Duncan for the voyage.
Mary Grant and the others in the story
Mary's care for Robert shows her devotion to her family before the journey begins. During the voyage, John Mangles quietly admires her, and their love grows though neither speaks of it.
Lady Helena watches over the travellers, offering care as the search carries them across the seas. Alongside the dangers and the puzzle, Mary's growing confidence gives the journey a personal meaning.
Questions
Who is Mary Grant's father?
Mary's father is Captain Grant, the missing captain whose message prompts the rescue voyage.
Who falls in love with Mary Grant?
John Mangles, the young captain of the Duncan, falls in love with Mary. Their affection deepens during the search for her father.
