Oscar and Lucinda 1997

Lucinda Receives the Prince Rupert's Drop

In a quaint Australian town, Lucinda Leplastrier has a life-altering experience when she unknowingly comes into possession of a Prince Rupert's Drop. This exquisite piece of glass ignites a passionate love for the craft of glassmaking, shaping the course of her life forever.

Tragic Loss of Parents

After the sudden and tragic loss of her parents, Lucinda's life takes a dramatic turn as she becomes a wealthy heiress. With her guardians quickly selling off her family's expansive farmland, her newfound wealth sets her on an unexpected path.

Acquisition of the Glass Factory

With her inherited wealth, Lucinda embarks on an ambitious venture to acquire a glass factory. This decision marks the beginning of her deep involvement in the art of glassmaking, yet it also opens the door to a world filled with high-stakes risks and challenges.

Oscar's Struggle with Faith

Meanwhile, Oscar, a young man raised under the strict beliefs of the Plymouth Brethren, experiences a crisis of faith. After receiving what he perceives as a divine sign, he decides to abandon his father's teachings and transition to the Anglican Church.

Oscar's Success in Gambling

As Oscar immerses himself in his new studies, he discovers the thrill of betting, leading to unexpected success. His winnings not only allowed him to fund his education but also enabled him to generously support those in need within his community.

Scholarship to New South Wales

Oscar's hard work and gambling success culminate in receiving a scholarship to New South Wales. This new opportunity sets the stage for a fateful encounter with Lucinda aboard a ship as they engage in a high-stakes game of cards.

Gambling Addiction and Downfall

Once arriving in New South Wales, Oscar's luck rapidly declines as he succumbs to his gambling addiction. The unfortunate turn of events results in the loss of his scholarship, leaving him in a vulnerable position without any clear direction.

Seeking Refuge at Lucinda's Factory

Having lost everything, Oscar seeks refuge at Lucinda's glass factory, where he finds a sense of purpose and inspiration. Lucinda shares her vision of constructing a glass church, prompting Oscar to wager that he can complete it by Good Friday.

Journey to Construct the Glass Church

Oscar embarks on a perilous journey to create the glass church, accompanied by the stern Mr. Jeffries. This adventure is fraught with personal and moral challenges, intensifying as Oscar's fears and reservations about water and gambling come to the forefront.

Violent Encounter and Self-Defense

During their travels, Oscar witnesses Mr. Jeffries commit violent acts against Indigenous Australians, forcing him into a tragic moment of self-defense. This harrowing experience weighs heavily on Oscar as he struggles with the morality of his actions.

Return with the Glass Church

After the arduous effort, Oscar successfully delivers the glass church back to Lucinda, but the emotional toll of his journey leaves him haunted. The experiences he endured begin to seep into his daily life and thought processes.

Oscar's Fragile State Under Miriam's Care

Upon returning, Oscar finds himself under the care of Miriam Chadwick, who sees an opportunity to exploit his emotional and physical frailty. This critical juncture sees Oscar grappling with the consequences of both his past decisions and current vulnerabilities.

Finding Solace in Prayer

In the aftermath of his struggles, Oscar seeks solace in prayer within the glass church he helped create. However, exhaustion catches up with him, leading to a deep sleep that threatens to unravel everything he has worked for.

Tragic Capsizing of the Barge

Tragedy strikes when the barge, meant to support the glass church, capsizes unexpectedly. Awakening from his slumber to this disaster, Oscar realizes the magnitude of his losses and the fragility of his recent triumphs.