The narrative unfolds in Wantley Manor, where Sir Godfrey Disseisin, a choleric baron, is preoccupied with his prized wine and the looming threat of a dragon that has plagued the region for thirteen years. The dragon, a fearsome creature that devours livestock and crops, is said to be a punishment for the baron's ancestor's refusal to join the Crusades. The curse will only be lifted when a female descendant of the first Sir Godfrey confronts the dragon alone on Christmas Eve. As the story progresses, Sir Godfrey's daughter, Elaine, remains blissfully unaware of the legend surrounding her family. However, the dragon's recent activities, including raiding the wine cellar, prompt concern among the household staff, particularly the butler Popham and the young servant Whelpdale. When Whelpdale informs Sir Godfrey of the dragon's theft of wine, the baron, enraged, dons his armor and prepares to confront the beast. Meanwhile, Elaine, intrigued by the legend, decides to take matters into her own hands. She resolves to face the dragon herself, believing that she can save her family and the estate. This decision sets off a chain of events that leads to her meeting Geoffrey, a young knight who has come to Wantley seeking adventure and glory. Geoffrey, enamored with Elaine, vows to help her confront the dragon. As Christmas Eve approaches, the tension builds. The baron, oblivious to his daughter's intentions, prepares for a grand celebration, inviting the entire county to witness the dragon's capture and Elaine's wedding. The monks of Oyster-le-Main, led by Father Anselm, are also drawn into the fray, with their own plans for the dragon. On the fateful night, Elaine and Geoffrey execute their plan. They lure the dragon into a trap, revealing that the creature is actually a ruse orchestrated by the monks to cover their own misdeeds. The dragon is captured, and the truth about the monks' deception comes to light. In a twist of fate, Geoffrey's bravery and Elaine's cunning lead to the dragon's defeat, and the curse is lifted. The story culminates in a festive wedding celebration, where Sir Godfrey, now relieved of the dragon's threat, joyfully marries off his daughter to Geoffrey. The community rejoices, and the baron's wine cellar is safe once more. The narrative concludes with a sense of camaraderie and the promise of a brighter future for Wantley Manor, free from the shadow of the dragon.
By Owen Wister · First published 1903 · Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, Comedy · 10 chapters