# The Young Vigilantes: A Story of California Life in the Fifties

By Samuel Adams Drake.

"The Young Vigilantes: A Story of California Life in the Fifties" by Samuel Adams Drake is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set during the 1850s, it explores themes of adventure, camaraderie, and the pursuit of fortune against the backdrop of the California Gold Rush. The narrative follows the protagonist, Walter Seabury, a young rigger who leaves behind a troubled life in Massachusetts to seek new opportunities in California, navigating challenges that test his courage and morality along the way. The opening of the novel introduces Walter Seabury during a dramatic train incident where his quick thinking prevents a disaster, showcasing his character's bravery and resourcefulness. Following this event, he finds himself on a journey to Boston, where he hopes to secure work as a rigger. Walter's background is revealed through his interactions, particularly with a friendly conductor, as well as a budding friendship with Charley Wormwood, another young man seeking fortune. As Walter gathers the courage to forge his path in a bustling city, the scene is set for his later adventures in California, where he and Charley will confront the realities of life during the Gold Rush, as well as the challenges posed by other characters they encounter along the way. (Summary by Project Gutenberg, written by machine.)

- Language: English
- Illustrator: L. J. Bridgman
- Subjects: Conduct of life -- Juvenile fiction; Adventure stories; Friendship -- Juvenile fiction; Voyages and travels -- Juvenile fiction; Sailors -- Juvenile fiction; Truthfulness and falsehood -- Juvenile fiction; Youth -- Conduct of life -- Juvenile fiction; Boston (Mass.) -- History -- 19th century -- Juvenile fiction; California -- History -- 1850-1950 -- Juvenile fiction; San Francisco (Calif.) -- History -- 19th century -- Juvenile fiction; Voyages to the Pacific coast -- Juvenile fiction

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From Project Gutenberg. Public domain in the United States.