Framton Nuttel had poor nerves. He came to retreat in the countryside to rest and heal his pain.

In the country, Framton knew no one. His sister knew he wouldn't talk to anyone, and moping would make his nerves worse. So she gave him a few introductory letters so he could visit and speak to individuals. She hoped that this would help heal his pain.

The husband of Ms Sappleton and her two brothers had gone three years ago to shoot through the open French window. That summer it had rained strongly. Many locations have become treacherously boggy that had been secure in past years. They were all enveloped in a piece of bog when they crossed the moor to their favorite shooting place. They could not recover their bodies.

Mrs Sappleton informed Framton that her husband and siblings had gone to the marshes to shoot water birds. It was anticipated that they would return shortly. They went through the window all the time. So she kept it open to them.