The Miser's Daughter: 10/20, Mr Cripps encountering his Master in Mary-le-Bone Gardens

The Miser's Daughter is a novel by William Harrison Ainsworth published in 1842. Set in the eighteenth century it is a historical romance which tells the story of Randulph Crew's attempts to marry the daughter of a miser called Scarve. It was illustrated by the prolific caricature artist George Cruikshank (1792-1878). Intertwined with the main plot are various strands which deal with aspects of London society at that time, for instance settlement of estates and wills.

This print shows the character of Mr Crackenthorpe Cripps, a valet, in the pleasure gardens at Marylebone, unexpectedly meeting his Master, Mr Villiers.The Gardens were located in the area of what is now Marylebone Road, Marylebone High Street, Weymouth Stret and Harley Street. Several entertainments took place in the Gardens such as cock fighting, bull-baiting and boxing matches as well as concerts( which can be seen in the background of the print).