Motor Matt's Launch; or, A Friend in Need

by Stanley R. Matthews

"Motor Matt's Launch; or, A Friend in Need" by Stanley R. Matthews is a work of fiction, likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the adventures of the main character, Matt King, affectionately known as Motor Matt, as he navigates various challenges involving his friends and foes in a thrilling motor launch race narrative. The escalating drama and interaction between characters hint at themes of friendship, bravery, and the pursuit of justice, particularly as Matt encounters a mix of new acquaintances and past adversaries. The opening of the book introduces Motor Matt as he reflects on the recent departure of his friends, which leaves him in a contemplative mood about his future. While he enjoys the mechanics of motors and boats, he understands the importance of education, considering the possibility of going to school. Soon, he meets Joe McGlory, a spirited cowboy eager to participate in a raffle for a fast motor launch. Their comical yet earnest interaction lays the groundwork for the camaraderie and adventures that await them, especially as they delve into a plot involving a young Chinese boy, Ping Pong, and a group of unsavory characters, suggesting a forthcoming quest that interweaves friendship and peril.