The Three Trappers; or, The Apache Chief's Ruse

by Edward Sylvester Ellis

"The Three Trappers; or, The Apache Chief's Ruse" by Seelin Robins is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows Fred Wainwright, a young hunter navigating the dangers of the American frontier as he encounters hostile Comanche Indians and seeks refuge with a pair of seasoned trappers, George Harling and Ward Lancaster. This narrative is poised to delve into themes of survival, camaraderie, and the adventures that come with trapping and exploring the untamed landscapes of the West. The opening of the novel introduces Fred Wainwright as he experiences a tense moment while surveying the prairie, fearing an impending encounter with Comanche Indians. After a successful but narrow escape from his pursuers, he inexplicably falls into the company of two friendly trappers who offer him refuge. The narrative then shifts to illustrate the personalities of these trappers, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of their adventures together and the challenges they face while navigating through hostile territories, including potential confrontations with the Apache tribe and the fortuitous encounter with an emigrant party. As relationships begin to develop, particularly with the mention of a mysterious young woman, the story hints at emotional entanglements alongside the physical challenges of frontier life.