The hungry tide

Will and Maria Foster live in the slums of Hull. When Will, a whaler, is crippled it is John Rayner, nephew of the owner of the whaling fleet, who rescues the family and offers them work and a home on the headland of Holderness. Will's third child is born there, bright and beautiful Sarah. As she grows into a serene and lovely woman John Rayner becomes increasingly aware of his love for Sarah - and equally aware of the gulf of wealth and social standing that makes marriage between them impossible.