A tight squeeze : $b or, The adventures of a gentleman, who, on a wager of ten thousand dollars, undertook to go from New York to New Orleans in three weeks without money, as a professional tramp.

by William Staats

"A Tight Squeeze; or, The Adventures of a Gentleman, Who, on a Wager of Ten Thousand Dollars, Undertook to Go from New York to New Orleans in Three Weeks, Without Money, as a Professional Tramp" by "Staats" is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book follows Benjamin Cleveland, a young man who, driven by a wager and the desire to prove himself, embarks on an extraordinary adventure to travel from New York to New Orleans without any money, adopting the lifestyle of a professional tramp. This intriguing premise sets the stage for a series of adventures that challenge both his physical and moral compass. The opening of the story introduces comedic dialogue among a group of friends discussing the nature of a "tramp" while a character, later revealed as Cleveland, prepares for his journey. The dialogue is rich with humor and character insights, showcasing the social dynamics of the era. Cleveland's wager is made, and he is determined to undertake this challenge, despite the foreseeable trials of poverty and homelessness. As he sets off, readers gain glimpses of both the allure and the harsh realities of a tramp's life, accompanied by a sense of adventure and self-discovery that promises an engaging narrative as Cleveland navigates this new world.