Jos. E. (Joseph Edward) Badger
The Texas Hawks; or, The Strange Decoy
"The Texas Hawks; or, The Strange Decoy" by Jos. E. Badger is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds amidst a backdrop of adventure and danger, focusing on a group of young hunters as they encounter a mysterious woman and navigate the perils of the Texas wilderness. The narrative begins with Fred Hawksley, the main character, who becomes enthralled by the strange rider he believes to be a wild woman, ultimately leading his companions into a web of intrigue and possible treachery. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to a hunting party resting around their campfire, where Fred Hawksley shares an extraordinary tale about a beautiful woman he claims to have seen. His buddies express skepticism, but Fred's insistence intrigues them. Suddenly, the mysterious woman appears before them, igniting a chase fueled by curiosity and a hint of danger. Meanwhile, another subplot involving a band of outlaws known as the Night Hawks unfolds, leading to tense confrontations and a deepening mystery. The opening sets the stage for a tale filled with action, a quest for understanding, and the complexities of human relationships against the backdrop of the untamed Texas landscape.