In Spite of All

'In Spite of All' is a historical novel by Edna Lyall that begins by telling the story of two children, Gabriel and Hilary, whose friendship is tested when a mastiff comes and steals Hilary's beloved wooden puppet. As Gabriel tries to rescue the toy, the dog bites his arm. This marks the beginning of the challenges that they will face in their youths and adulthood, but will their friendship endure, and will they remain loyal to each other in spite of all obstacles?