"Young Blood" by E. W. Hornung is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows Harry Ringrose, a young man returning home on his twenty-first birthday after two adventurous years in Africa, only to discover that his family's home has been auctioned off and his father has disappeared, entangled in a web of financial disgrace. As Harry grapples with the shocking truth about his father's actions, he faces the reality of his family's fallen fortunes and his newfound responsibilities. The opening of the narrative presents Harry's emotional journey as he travels home, reminiscing about his childhood and eagerly anticipating his reunion with his parents. However, upon arrival, he is met with an empty house and an auctioneer's list, sparking a deep sense of anguish and loss. The arrival of Gordon Lowndes—a friend of his father's—offers Harry some relief, but Lowndes brings unsettling news about the family's financial collapse and the implications of his father's flight. The beginning sets up a gripping tale of youthful hope juxtaposed with harsh realities, as Harry is thrust into a world of adult responsibilities and the quest to uncover the truth behind his father's actions. (This is an automatically generated summary.)