Charles Lamb fell asleep in his armchair and dreamed of his deceased children, James Elia and Alice. In his dream, the children asked him to tell them about their great-grandmother, Mrs. Field, who used to care for an old manor house. Lamb described Mrs. Field as a religious and caring woman, though she later fell ill with cancer. He then continued the story by telling of Uncle John, who enjoyed outdoor activities and helped the lame James Elia. The dream took a sad turn and the children began to cry before disappearing into the distance. Lamb awoke to find himself alone in the armchair - it had all been a dream.