"A Son of the Soil" by Mrs. Oliphant is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the lives of young Colin and other inhabitants of Ramore—a small village in the Highlands of Scotland—as they navigate the challenges of youth, class disparity, and the expectations of their futures. The narrative touches on themes such as ambition, societal norms, and the rich, albeit often dreary, landscape of rural Scotland. The opening of the book showcases a dialogue between a young Etonian boy, who is visiting the Scottish countryside, and young Colin, a local lad. Through their interactions, we sense a rivalry born of class differences, as the Etonian looks down upon Colin's rustic life, while Colin resents the privilege that the Eton boy represents. Their encounter on a rainy day highlights the contrasting perspectives of both boys, as well as their families’ differing circumstances. As the scene unfolds within the farmer's home, we also gain insights into Colin's character, his relationships with his family, and the social structures of their world, setting the stage for the deeper conflicts and themes that will develop throughout the narrative. The opening establishes the foundations of the boys' rivalry and the dramatic changes that will shape their lives. (This is an automatically generated summary.)