Mrs. Errol, affectionately called "Dearest" by her son Cedric, was an American woman of modest means. She married Captain Cedric Errol, youngest son of the Earl of Dorincourt. After her husband's death, she raised Cedric alone in genteel poverty in New York City. The Earl had disowned his son for marrying an American and maintained significant prejudice against her, refusing all contact.

Despite financial hardship, she fostered a warm and principled home for Cedric, instilling values of kindness, empathy, and generosity. Her parenting centered on intuitive morality and optimism, profoundly shaping Cedric's character. When Cedric was named heir to the Earldom, she accompanied him to England. Barred from Dorincourt Castle by the Earl's hostility, she accepted separate lodging nearby but declined his financial support, relying on her own limited income.

Her resilience and dignity marked her dealings with the Earl's representatives. She shielded Cedric from the reason for their separation to protect his emotional well-being and encourage his bond with his grandfather. Residing in England, she engaged in charitable work, significantly aiding impoverished tenants in Erleboro village, which gradually shifted local opinions of her.

Her story culminated when the Earl, moved by Cedric's constant admiration for her and her own demonstrated integrity during the false heir crisis, reconciled with her. He acknowledged her virtues and formally invited her to live at Dorincourt Castle, integrating her into the family.

Her relationship with Cedric remained paramount, defined by mutual devotion. He adopted the affectionate name "Dearest" from his father's way of addressing her. Her influence extended beyond motherhood, serving as a moral anchor for both Cedric and, ultimately, the Earl, whose transformation stemmed partly from recognizing her qualities.