Frank Merriwell's False Friend; Or, An Investment in Human Nature

by Burt L. Standish

"Frank Merriwell's False Friend; Or, An Investment in Human Nature" by Burt L. Standish is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. This story follows the titular character, Frank Merriwell, a respected and successful student athlete at Yale, who suddenly goes missing, causing concern among his friends and teammates. As the plot unfolds, themes of loyalty, rivalry, and moral integrity come to the forefront, with Merriwell's character serving as a beacon of virtue amid the chaos. The opening of the novel sets the stage for a dramatic situation at Yale, where the absence of Frank Merriwell creates upheaval among the baseball team as they prepare for an important trip. His friends express their worries, and the tension escalates when rumors about his sudden departure begin to circulate, hinting at potential scandal. As various characters react to Frank’s absence, we are introduced to Dade Morgan, an ambitious freshman who is determined to make a mark on the team, and Bart Hodge, who fiercely defends his friend’s honor. The narrative unfolds amidst a backdrop of college athletics and personal struggles, suggesting that the story will delve into both sporting rivalries and deeper issues of friendship and integrity.