02529cam a22003253u 4500 1764 UtSlPG 20260610133049.0 m cr n 260607r1999||||utu|||||o|||||||||||||| d UtSlPG en iso639-1 PS Davis, Richard Harding, 1864-1916 Billy and the Big Stick Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg, 1999 1 online resource : multiple file formats text txt rdacontent computer c rdamedia online resource cr rdacarrier Release date is 1999-05-01 Produced by Aaron Cannon, and David Widger "Billy and the Big Stick" by Richard Harding Davis is a satirical novella set in the early 20th century that delves into themes of colonialism, diplomacy, and personal ambition. The story follows Billy Barlow, an American electrical engineer who finds himself in the tumultuous political climate of Hayti (Haiti), where he must navigate the complexities of power, corruption, and personal relationships. The tale captures Billy’s efforts to secure his wages while also trying to win the heart of Claire, the daughter of a local café owner. The narrative unfolds as Billy, having been left behind when his employer, the Wilmot Company, is forced out of Hayti, becomes an employee of the government under President Hamilear Poussevain. Despite his talents, he is constantly underpaid and must resort to increasingly outrageous tactics to negotiate for his overdue salary. As tensions rise, Billy cleverly maneuvers his way into a position where he can threaten the president with American military intervention, using the arrival of a U.S. warship as leverage. His quick thinking and boldness not only help him secure his payment but also allow him to pursue his romantic aspirations with Claire, culminating in a dramatic flight from the constraints of their oppressively bureaucratic environment. Ultimately, the story mixes humor with sharp social commentary, reflecting on both the absurdities of international politics and the determination of an individual to take control of their destiny. (This is an automatically generated summary.) Original publication data not identified Short stories Threats -- Fiction Haiti -- Officials and employees -- Salaries, etc. -- Fiction https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/1764 43878 43878