National Network for Equitable Library Service

Elise Vane was a talented young woman from Heidelberg, Germany, engaged to a young English music student named Percy Criddle, in 1863. Percy's mother refused permission for them to marry as she could not support a family and he had no means to do so. Percy returned to England but visited Elise at Christmas and other occasions until 1866 when he stayed for an extended six-week holiday. That Chrismas Elise's family expected him to do the ‘honourable thing’ and marry Elise. Germans required a groom to have parental permission, a profession or job and dwelling, so Percy promised to marry Elise in London. Although no marriage record has been located, they had five children by 1874 when he married Alice Nicol. Both women registered Percy Criddle as the father of sons the following spring. Using his wife’s legacy Percy decided to emigrate to Canada in 1882. Following Elise’s willingness to assist Mrs. Criddle with her five children, from teenager Minnie down to Cecil seven, Elise became the Criddle’s servant. Original letters, diaries, documents, and research in Canada, Germany, and England are the foundation for this compelling story.