Malachi McAsh

Malachi McAsh is a child at the beginning of the book. He has a twin sister named Esther and lives in Heugh where High Glen is located. He began working in the mines at the age of seven and consulted a lawyer to learn the rights of the miners, an act which brings him into conflict with mine owner, Sir George Jamisson. Mack decides to leave before he reaches the year and a day anniversary that will make him a slave in the coal mines. He finally manages to escape and goes to London. He lives with Dermot and Bridget Riley and saves money to send for Esther. Mack is easily upset about situations in which he and others are unfairly treated. He sees lawyer Caspar Gordonson because of the working conditions in London. They formulate a new system for coal heavers which results in higher wages...