The narrative unfolds in a remote Arizona saloon called Twenty Mile, where Ephraim, the proprietor, has just buried a man killed by Apaches. The saloon is a hub for travelers, often filled with drunken revelry and the occasional violent incident. Among the patrons is a tenderfoot named J. Cumnor, who is new to the harsh realities of frontier life. He naively trusts those around him, leading to a series of humiliations and dangerous encounters. Cumnor's first night at the saloon is marked by a forced dance, where he becomes the target of mockery from the seasoned patrons. An old gentleman, Mr. Adams, threatens him with a gun, but Cumnor, in a moment of bravado, turns the tables and forces Adams to dance at gunpoint. This act of defiance earns him the respect of Specimen Jones, a seasoned frontiersman who observes the unfolding chaos with a mix of amusement and concern. As the night progresses, Cumnor's bravado fades, revealing his inexperience and vulnerability. He is overwhelmed by the harshness of the environment and the brutality of the men around him. Specimen Jones, recognizing Cumnor's potential but also his naivety, attempts to guide him through the treacherous landscape of frontier life. The following day, Cumnor decides to continue his journey to San Carlos, despite Jones's warnings about the dangers that lie ahead. Jones, initially planning to head to Tucson, feels a sense of responsibility for the boy and ultimately decides to accompany him. Their journey takes a dark turn when they encounter the aftermath of an Apache ambush, witnessing the brutal reality of life on the frontier. In a desperate attempt to distract the approaching Apaches, Jones and Cumnor engage in a bizarre dance, clashing milk cans together while singing. This absurd performance serves as a moment of camaraderie between the two, highlighting the absurdity of their situation. However, Cumnor's exhaustion leads him to a state of delirium, and he begins to lose his grip on reality. As night falls, Jones manages to get Cumnor to safety, leading him to a military hospital at Grant. There, Cumnor begins to recover, and the bond between him and Jones deepens. They both enlist in the military, marking a significant transformation in Cumnor's character from a naive tenderfoot to a more seasoned individual ready to face the challenges of frontier life. The story explores themes of survival, the harsh realities of the American West, and the complexities of human relationships in a lawless environment. Through the experiences of Cumnor and Jones, it reflects on the journey from innocence to experience, underscoring the unpredictable nature of life on the frontier.
By Owen Wister · First published 1896 · Genre: Western, Adventure, Literary Fiction