When Dr. Stevens finds a young man sitting alone in Phildelphia, he takes pity on him and invites him into his home. The young man's name is Arthur Mervyn and he is suffering from yellow fever, an illness that has swept through the city. In Dr. Stevens' care, Arthur becomes well again. Arthur is a pleasant man and they spend many hours discussing the future. However, when Mr. Whortley visits Dr. Stevens and recognizes Arthur, the serene life that was so hoped for by Arthur is brought into turmoil. For Arthur's past is not one of innocence, but one involving swindlers and lost monies. And Dr. Stevens must decide if Arthur deserves another chance at improving a wretched life.
Charles Brockden Brown is considered the man who brought Gothic literature to America. Before him, Gothic novels were set in European ruined castles and moors. Brown brought them to the towns and villages of America, but retained the Gothic feel that people of the time enjoyed so much. Arthur Mervyn was one of his most popular novels.
