Frank Merriwell's Reward

by Burt L. Standish

"Frank Merriwell's Reward" by Burt L. Standish is a novel written in the late 19th century." The story revolves around Frank Merriwell, a character known for his athletic prowess and bravery, as he navigates a series of adventurous events with his friends. The novel opens with an action-packed scene involving a runaway automobile, setting the stage for Merriwell's heroic tendencies. "At the start of the story, readers are introduced to Frank and his friends as they encounter a runaway electric hansom causing chaos in the street." Frank steps in to manage the vehicle, showcasing his quick thinking and bravery. Following this incident, a subplot unfolds involving Dunstan Kirk, who is in pursuit of a suspect named Morton Agnew, further complicating the narrative. As the friends discuss various matters, including the troubled pitcher Buck Badger and a forthcoming baseball game, tensions arise related to loyalty and personal preferences that hint at deeper character developments and conflicts to come. The opening highlights Merriwell's leadership qualities, sets up a sports backdrop, and introduces elements of camaraderie and rivalry among the young men, which are likely to be pivotal throughout the novel.