The characters presented throughout the novel include; (in order of introduction)
- Mary Yellan, main character
- Mary's parents, who die, causing her to move away
- Joss Merlyn, inn-keeper
- Patience Merlyn, inn-keeper's wife
- Jem Merlyn, Joss's younger brother
- Squire Bassat, local squire and Mary's rescuer
- Francis Davy, Vicar
- Hannah, Vicar's housekeeper
- Mrs Bassat, squire's wife