Old Ruff, the Trapper; or, The Young Fur-Hunters

by Edward Sylvester Ellis

"Old Ruff, the Trapper; or, The Young Fur-Hunters" by Edward Sylvester Ellis is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows young Harry Northend, who is anxiously searching for his promised bride, Little Rifle, in the treacherous wilderness of Oregon. As Harry navigates various dangers, including the threat of Blackfoot Indians, he enlists the help of the experienced trapper Old Ruff Robsart, setting the stage for an adventurous pursuit fraught with uncertainty. At the start of the narrative, we meet Harry Northend, who is troubled by the mysterious disappearance of Little Rifle as he waits by their campfire. Convinced she has gone to consult Old Ruff before making a significant decision, he embarks on a journey to find her. After a brief detour to the nearby fort, he returns to search for any signs of her and ultimately seeks Old Ruff’s assistance in unraveling the mystery. Their bond grows deeper as they share a sense of urgency to find Little Rifle, setting a tone of camaraderie and determination as they delve into the dangers that lay ahead.