With Wolseley to Kumasi: A Tale of the First Ashanti War

by F. S. (Frederick Sadleir) Brereton

"With Wolseley to Kumasi: A Tale of the First Ashanti War" by Captain F. S. Brereton is a historical adventure novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Dick Stapleton, who finds himself in dire circumstances in the Gold Coast after the death of his father and the theft of his family's gold. As he grapples with the threat of dishonesty from his father's former employee, James Langdon, the stage is set for a gripping tale of intrigue, self-reliance, and the clash between the indigenous culture and European ambitions. The opening of the narrative introduces Dick Stapleton, who is struggling to find solace on a sweltering night in Cape Coast as he contemplates his father's death, his dwindling financial resources, and his suspicions about James Langdon's dishonesty. Distracted by the oppressive heat and the threat of thieves, he takes a position on the verandah with a rifle, intending to keep watch over his fortune. However, he soon finds himself embroiled in a confrontation when Langdon, intent on robbing him, appears under the cover of darkness. The tension escalates as Dick fights to reclaim what is rightfully his, ultimately leading to a daring nighttime chase that promises more adventures to unfold.