This book, meant for children, tells the story of Philip Montague, a young boy born in Jamaica after his parents travel from England to manage the properties inherited by his mother. His father is depicted as a “remarkably humane and benevolent man,” an “example of Christian charity” devoted to ensuring the well-being of those under his care. After Philip is orphaned at six, he is left in the care of his nurse and a Black servant named Caesar, praised for his honesty, fidelity, strict integrity, and knowledge of Christian principles. Caesar is entrusted with bringing Philip to his guardian in England, Mr. Harley. In England, Caesar remains in the household, regarded “more as a friend than as a servant,” and Phillip asked for him to not be referred to as “Black negro,” but simply as Caesar.

The story is written in a didactic style, aimed at imparting moral lessons to children, emphasizing virtues like diligence, kindness, self-discipline, the importance of education, and the positive impact of Christian values on overcoming life’s challenges, echoing the themes from the Infant School Society folio. The frontispiece depicts two gentlemen, one Black and one white—likely Mr. Harley and Caesar—speaking to Philip in front of a house while children play nearby. The engraving presents both men as equals, with similar gestures and height, and dressed in comparable clothes, although Caesar stands one step behind.