Fanny is ejected by her boy-friend James due to a misunderstanding; she is furious. After a horrific confrontation with some boys, she gets taken in by the enigmatic Dr. McIntyre and engages in a relationship convenient to them both in divergent ways.

The gardener Job, who plays a pivotal role, is very fond of Fanny as well as his little white dog. After many twists, the tale is resolved in a surprising and bizarre way.

Each of the characters is observer and observed - subject and object - at the same time, creating a linear and circular quality to the writing.

This picaresque narrative, which is Fanny's story, adds to the novella's sensuality, humour and humanity.