A young man named Robin, barely eighteen and country-bred, arrives in a colonial town seeking his wealthy kinsman, Major Molineux. He is optimistic about his visit, having been encouraged by his family to pursue opportunities with the Major, who had previously shown interest in him. However, upon arriving, Robin finds himself lost and unable to locate his relative's home. As he wanders the streets, he encounters various townsfolk, including an angry old man, a courteous innkeeper, and a mysterious figure with a dual-colored face who cryptically advises him to wait for the Major. Despite his efforts, Robin is met with ridicule and hostility, as the townspeople seem to mock his rural appearance and naivety. His search leads him to a tavern where he is further humiliated, and he begins to feel the weight of his isolation and hunger. He meets a woman who claims to know the Major's whereabouts but ultimately does not help him. As the night progresses, Robin's frustration grows, and he contemplates the possibility that he may never find his kinsman. Eventually, Robin is directed to wait outside a church, where he encounters a kind stranger who engages him in conversation. The stranger expresses curiosity about Robin's situation and assures him that the Major will soon pass by. As they wait, a commotion arises in the town, drawing the attention of both men. A procession of revelers, led by a horseman, approaches, and Robin is shocked to see Major Molineux at the center of the spectacle, publicly humiliated and ridiculed by the crowd. The Major's once-proud demeanor is shattered, and Robin is struck by the contrast between his expectations and the reality of his kinsman's situation. In a moment of surreal clarity, Robin realizes the absurdity of the scene and joins in the laughter of the crowd, despite the pain it causes him. The night culminates in a chaotic celebration, leaving Robin to reflect on the harsh realities of life in the town and the disillusionment of his expectations. Ultimately, Robin decides he no longer wishes to remain in the town, feeling that he has lost the opportunity he sought. The story concludes with the stranger offering to help him in the future, suggesting that Robin may find his own way to succeed without relying on the Major.
By Nathaniel Hawthorne · First published 1832 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Coming-of-Age, Satire