John Frankford

John Frankford is portrayed as a prosperous gentleman known for his generosity and fairness towards his entire household, thereby earning the unwavering loyalty of his servants. Despite his benevolent nature, he is deeply betrayed by his beloved wife, Anne, and his trusted friend, Wendoll, whom he had welcomed into his home. Initially hesitant to believe his servant Nick’s accusations, John is compelled to uncover the truth about their betrayal. Although societal conventions would demand bloody vengeance from a wronged husband, John chooses a path of mercy. He opts to banish Anne to his country manor instead, where she eventually succumbs to heartbreak.

Anne Frankford

Anne Frankford appears as the ideal of grace and chastity at the time of her marriage. However, she finds herself unable to resist the relentless courtship of Wendoll, whom her husband has left alone with her. Following the revelation of her infidelity, Anne is overwhelmed by guilt and the magnanimity of her husband. Ultimately, she chooses to starve herself, dying in a state of remorse, yet forgiven by her husband on her deathbed as she passes away in his arms.

Wendoll

Wendoll, the lover of Anne, is initially introduced as Frankford’s protégé. Despite experiencing pangs of conscience over his deceitful betrayal of Frankford’s hospitality, he is ultimately swayed by his passions and persuades Anne to reciprocate his affections. Wendoll brazenly taunts Frankford with suggestive remarks during their card games. Once their affair is uncovered, he repents and realizes that he must become a wanderer, marked by the shame of his betrayal, akin to Cain’s exile.

Charles Mountford

Charles Mountford is characterized as an impulsive country squire whose temper leads him to kill two of Sir Francis Acton’s servants during a heated argument about a hawk. This act earns him the enmity of Acton. After being freed from prison by sacrificing his entire fortune, Charles resides in the country alongside his sister, content with a simpler life. However, he is soon arrested again, this time due to the treachery of a creditor he trusted. Once released through Acton’s intervention, Charles feels compelled to repay his debt of gratitude and offers his sister Susan as his only remaining treasure, reflecting his stringent code of honor.

Susan

Susan, the devoted sister of Charles Mountford, shares in his adversities. Initially horrified by her brother’s plan to offer her to Sir Francis, she eventually comes to understand his perspective enough to communicate their offer to Acton. She vows to end her life rather than compromise her honor. However, Sir Francis relieves her from this dire proposition and instead proposes marriage, which she accepts.

Sir Francis Acton

Sir Francis Acton, the brother of Anne Frankford, becomes Charles Mountford’s implacable foe after the murder of his servants. His stance softens when he falls for Susan’s charms. Unable to buy her affections, he decides to win them through kindness, aiding her brother's release. Struck by Charles’s honorable offer, Acton refuses to dishonor Susan and instead seeks her hand in marriage.

Malby

Malby and

Cranwell

Cranwell are known as friends of Sir Francis Acton, supporting him through various endeavors.

Shafton

Shafton is depicted as a cunning opportunist, who extends a generous loan to Charles under the guise of friendship but later has him imprisoned when he cannot repay the debt.

Nicholas

Nicholas, serving as Frankford’s diligent manservant, immediately distrusts Wendoll upon his arrival. His suspicions are eventually confirmed, and he discloses Wendoll’s treacherous actions to Frankford.

Jenkin

Jenkin,

Cicely

Cicely, and

Spigot

Spigot are amicable members of Frankford’s household, who not only hold their master in high regard but are also acutely aware of the happenings within the home.

Jack Slime

Jack Slime and

Roger Brickbat

Roger Brickbat are rustic characters who participate in the dance honoring Frankford’s marriage.

Old Mountford

Old Mountford,

Sandy

Sandy,

Roger

Roger, and

Tidy

Tidy are once-close relatives and former friends of Charles. Despite having benefited from his generosity in the past, they heartlessly refuse Susan’s pleas for financial assistance to free her imprisoned brother.