Gilbert Markham, a kindhearted, industrious, and passionate young farmer. In a series of letters written to his brother-in-law, he tells the story of his romance with the mysterious woman who is the new tenant of Wildfell Hall. At first unable to get through her protective shell of coldness and aloofness, Gilbert finally discovers her story, and his sincere sympathy and interest in her work as a landscape painter endear him to her. After several years of separation, faithful Gilbert marries his loved one.