Mary Yellan

Mary Yellan is a strong young woman who has been raised on a farm, working alongside her mother on the farm chores. Mary has never known violence or cruelty, except for the violence that occasionally takes place in nature. When Mary's mother becomes sick, Mary takes care of her, sitting vigil at her bedside for nearly a year before the older woman succumbs to her illness. Before she dies, Mary's mother makes her daughter promise that she will sell the farm and go to live with her Aunt Patience in Bodmin. Mary loves the farm, the area, and all her friends, therefore she is reluctant to leave. However, Mary takes her promises to her mother seriously. Mary sells the farm, saddened by the plans the new owner is making, and begins to prepare for a new life at Jamaica Inn.

Mary recalls her aunt as a vivacious...