Dr. Wainwright's Patient by Edmund Yates is a late 19th-century novel set in the changing village of Beachborough, centered on Captain Derinzy and his niece, Miss Annette, as well as the enigmatic Dr. Wainwright. The story explores family dynamics, health concerns, and the tension between characters, especially in relation to Annette's mysterious illness and Captain Derinzy's complicated interactions with others. At the start, Beachborough is a picturesque village on the verge of modern change, with Captain Derinzy, a somewhat irritable yet refined man, reflecting on the transformations around him. During a supper gathering at Mrs. Powler's, gossip arises about the Captain's condition and the health of his niece, Annette. As the narrative progresses, it becomes clear that Annette is an invalid, and Dr. Wainwright's arrival from London sparks intrigue about her condition. The interactions between Mrs. Powler, Mrs. Jupp, and the doctor reveal the layers of village gossip and concern, setting the stage for further developments and emotional complexities.