The City of Numbered Days

by Francis Lynde

"The City of Numbered Days" by Francis Lynde is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work explores the life and experiences of Brouillard, a chief of construction in the Reclamation Service, as he embarks on a major project in the arid Buckskin Desert. The narrative hints at themes of personal transformation, labor, and the mix of ambition and societal complexities, primarily through Brouillard and the interactions he has with other characters, including J. Wesley Cortwright, a wealthy visitor, and the indigenous Navajo people. At the start of the story, Brouillard is introduced as a thoughtful and introspective character, reflecting on the significance of the number seven in his life, particularly on his 28th birthday. This personal milestone sparks conversations about change, memory, and the unpredictability of life. As the narrative unfolds, Brouillard engages with a group of engineers while recounting past experiences, and he becomes increasingly intertwined with the charming Cortwright family, including the beautiful Genevieve. The atmosphere shifts with the introduction of a mysterious light in the canyon, suggesting the approach of unforeseen challenges that may disrupt the delicate dynamics of Brouillard’s personal and professional life in this burgeoning frontier society.