Fast Nine; or, A Challenge from Fairfield

by Alan Douglas

"Fast Nine; or, A Challenge from Fairfield" by Captain Alan Douglas is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a group of Boy Scouts in Hickory Ridge, particularly focusing on Elmer Chenowith and his friends as they prepare for a baseball game against a rival team from Fairfield. Themes of camaraderie, youthful adventure, and sportsmanship are woven through the narrative, illustrating the values taught through scouting activities. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Elmer and his friends as they return from a fishing trip, joking and laughing along the Sunflower River. The plot thickens when they learn that Matt Tubbs, a bully from Fairfield who has caused trouble in the past, has organized his own troop of Boy Scouts and intends to challenge Hickory Ridge to a baseball game. Anticipating the challenges ahead, the boys reflect on their past encounters with the Fairfield team, while Elmer expresses hope that Tubbs’ newfound leadership will result in a fair game. The opening sets the stage for a friendly rivalry filled with lessons on teamwork, loyalty, and personal growth among the youth.