The story follows the Trippertrot children—Mary, Tommy, and Johnny—who find themselves in an unexpected adventure after a runaway horse pulls them away in a grocery wagon. As they navigate unfamiliar streets, they discover the wagon is filled with groceries, including a Thanksgiving dinner. Despite being lost, the children decide to eat some of the food, planning to pay the owner later. The horse eventually stops at a shabby house, where the children decide to deliver the Thanksgiving dinner. They meet a poor woman and her hungry children, who are initially hesitant to accept the meal, believing it to be a mistake. However, the Trippertrots insist, convinced the horse brought them to the right place. The poor family gratefully accepts the meal, and the Trippertrots help prepare the dinner, bringing joy to the household. As the dinner is being prepared, a knock on the door reveals the grocery boy, who has been searching for the children and the wagon. The story concludes with the Trippertrots having successfully delivered the meal to a family in need, highlighting themes of kindness, adventure, and the spirit of giving.
By Howard R. Garis · First published 1916 · Genre: Children's Literature, Adventure, Holiday Fiction