Harte, Bret 1836-1902 creator text utu 2006 monographic en 1 online resource : multiple file formats "Openings in the Old Trail" by Bret Harte is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The work captures the spirit of the American West through richly drawn characters and vivid landscapes, exploring themes of adventure, youthful innocence, and the intricacies of human relationships against the backdrop of frontier life. At the start of the volume, the tale "A Mercury of the Foot-Hills" introduces us to Leonidas Boone, a curious and adventurous young boy enduring the sweltering heat of Casket Ridge. As he embarks on an errand to the post-office, a chance encounter with a beautiful woman, Mrs. Burroughs, sparks a series of secretive and somewhat romantic interactions. She enlists Leonidas as a go-between, imparting a sense of importance to his otherwise simple life. The opening illustrates Leonidas’s boyhood charm, his playful interactions with nature, and his budding feelings for the mysterious woman, all while hinting at deeper themes of loyalty and innocence intertwined with the complexities of adult relationships. (This is an automatically generated summary.) A Mercury of the foot-hills -- Colonel Starbottle for the plaintiff -- The landlord of the Big Flume Hotel -- A Buckeye Hollow inheritance -- The reincarnation of Smith -- Lanty Foster's mistake -- An Ali Baba of the Sierras -- Miss Peggy's protégés -- The goddess of Excelsior. Release date is 2006-05-18 Produced by Donald Lainson; David Widger Original publication data not identified Short stories Western stories American fiction -- 19th century California -- Social life and customs -- Fiction PS Original publication data not identified https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/2535 https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/2535 UtSlPG 260607 20260610133059.0 2535