02275cam a22003253u 4500 10562 UtSlPG 20260610133244.0 m cr n 260607r2004||||utu|||||o|||||||||||||| d UtSlPG en iso639-1 PR Jacobs, W. W. (William Wymark), 1863-1943 Friends in Need : Ship's Company, Part 2. Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg, 2004 1 online resource : multiple file formats text txt rdacontent computer c rdamedia online resource cr rdacarrier Release date is 2004-01-01 Produced by David Widger "Friends in Need" by W. W. Jacobs is a comedic short story written in the early 20th century. The book explores themes of friendship, deception, and the often absurd nature of human relationships. Set against a backdrop of working-class life in early 20th century England, the narrative follows the interactions of a group of friends as they navigate through a series of events surrounding a fabricated tragedy. In the story, the main character, Mr. Joseph Gibbs, fakes his own drowning to escape the troubles of his life, leaving his friends in a state of grief and concern for his widow. As his friends arrange a collection to support Mrs. Gibbs after the alleged tragedy, Mr. Gibbs enjoys his newfound freedom across the river. Meanwhile, the comedic miscommunication culminates in a farcical attempt to reintegrate him into society without revealing his deception to his wife. The plot reveals layers of irony and humor as Gibbs's plans unravel, ultimately leading to an unexpectedly hilarious conclusion when his wife decides to move on with her life, believing her husband is truly dead. Through witty dialogue and a blend of farce and camaraderie, Jacobs captures the essence of human folly and the unpredictability of life. (This is an automatically generated summary.) Original publication data not identified Humorous stories, English England -- Social life and customs -- Fiction Owen, Will, 1869-1957 https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/10562 52022 52022