Description

"Post Haste" is an adventure novel written by Scottish author R. M. Ballantyne and first published in 1874. The story follows the journey of a young man named Percy as he sets out to deliver a message to a remote outpost in the Canadian wilderness.

The novel begins with Percy, a clerk in a shipping office in Liverpool, being given an urgent message to deliver to a remote outpost in Canada. The message is from a wealthy businessman who needs to be informed of a business opportunity that he cannot afford to miss. Percy is hesitant at first, but the promise of a substantial reward convinces him to take on the task.

Percy sets out on his journey across the Atlantic and arrives in Quebec City, where he meets his guide, an experienced trapper named Joe. Together, they set out into the wilderness, traveling by canoe and on foot through dense forests and over treacherous rapids. Along the way, they encounter various dangers, including wild animals and hostile natives, but they manage to persevere.

As they near their destination, Percy and Joe learn that the businessman they are delivering the message to has been kidnapped by a group of outlaws. Percy decides to take matters into his own hands and leads a rescue mission to save the businessman. With the help of some friendly natives, they successfully free the businessman and return him to safety.

Despite the many obstacles they face, Percy and Joe eventually reach their destination and deliver the message. The businessman is grateful and rewards Percy with a large sum of money, which he uses to start his own business. The novel ends with Percy reflecting on his adventure and the lessons he has learned along the way.

"Post Haste" is a classic adventure novel that captures the spirit of exploration and adventure in the Canadian wilderness. It is a tale of perseverance, bravery, and resourcefulness in the face of danger and adversity. Ballantyne's vivid descriptions of the natural environment and the challenges faced by his characters make the novel an engaging and entertaining read.