Public-domain ebook
Language: en5,113 downloads on Project Gutenberg
Subjects
In: Children's Book Series·Children & Young Adult Reading·Crime, Thrillers and Mystery
Public-domain ebook sourced from Project Gutenberg #20985.
The book is a juvenile adventure that blends Boy‑Scout camaraderie with a light mystery. It picks up where the previous volume left off, reminding readers of the Red Fox patrol’s recent triumphs and the lingering puzzle of vanished coins. The story opens on a dark night in Stanhope, where four scouts, Paul, the son of the town doctor, his bugler friend Bobolink, Jack Stormways, and Joe Clausin, venture into a feed store after hearing a strange sound. Their investigation quickly turns from curiosity to concern when they find Joe’s father unconscious, a safe left ajar, and the suggestion of a robbery. The narrative moves from the tense discovery to the boys’ attempts to help the injured man and to piece together what may have happened, setting the stage for a series of clues that will test their resourcefulness and loyalty.
Written in the straightforward, earnest style of early twentieth‑century youth fiction, the prose reflects the period’s emphasis on moral lessons, teamwork, and the outdoors. The voice is brisk and dialogue‑driven, with a modest amount of description that conveys the atmosphere of a small town at night. Readers who enjoy classic Scout stories, modest mysteries, and tales of youthful bravery will find this book appealing, especially those who appreciate a nostalgic glimpse into a time when honor and initiative were the hallmarks of a good adventure.
The opening · free to read
In the preceding volume, "The Banner Boy Scouts; or, The Struggle for Leadership," I endeavored to interest my readers in an account of the numerous trials and adventures that befell Paul and his chums when forming the first Red Fox Patrol. You will remember how the mystery of the disappearing coins continued to puzzle Paul and Jack almost up to the very conclusion of the story. And doubtless you were also ready to admit that, hard pressed by jealous rivals at home, as well as forced to compete with two neighboring troops who longed to possess the prize banner, the Stanhope scouts certainly did have a warm time of it, right up to the close of the tournament.
The wonderful way in which they carried off first honors at that same competition certainly ought to inspire all Boy Scouts to emulate their example, and never be satisfied with half-hearted efforts. I sincerely hope and trust the stirring happenings that fall to the lot of Paul and his chums, as related between the covers of the present volume, may give every reader the same amount of pleasure that I have experienced in writing them.
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