Catriona (published in the US as David Balfour) was published by Cassell and Company in 1893. The novel continues David Balfour’s story from Kidnapped. David tries to give evidence at the trial of James of the Glens for the Appin murder, but is prevented by political interests who need a conviction regardless of the truth. Entangled in Edinburgh’s legal and political world, David meets Catriona Drummond, the daughter of the renegade James More Drummond, and falls in love with her.
The novel was more psychologically complex than Kidnapped — less a physical adventure than a study of political corruption, moral compromise, and the difficulties of courtship between two young people of very different temperaments and backgrounds.
Collecting Catriona
First edition (Cassell and Company, London, 1893): Blue cloth.
Market values:
- First edition, fine: $500–$1,500
- First edition, very good: $200–$500
- Good: $75–$200
Projected values (2026–2036): Moderate appreciation.
The Sequel to Kidnapped
Catriona (1893) — published in the US as David Balfour — continues David Balfour’s story as he navigates Edinburgh’s legal and political world, testifies at the Appin murder trial, and falls in love with the Highland girl Catriona Drummond. The novel is more political and more romantic than Kidnapped, exchanging the Highland adventure for courtroom intrigue and love story. It is one of Stevenson’s most underrated novels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Catriona published under a different title in America? American publishers feared the Scottish name “Catriona” would be unpronounceable and changed the title to David Balfour. Both titles are found in first editions. The UK first edition (Cassell, 1893) under the title Catriona is the preferred collectible.