Danger Cliff, and Other Stories: A Bit of Logic
"Danger Cliff, and Other Stories: A Bit of Logic" by Pansy presents a narrative centered around Rufus, a young man who dismisses the value of foreign missions due to their perceived financial burden on the country. While lounging and smoking a cigar, Rufus argues that the nation cannot sustain the expense of foreign missions, which he claims cost two and a half million dollars annually. His sisters, Kate and Nannie, challenge his logic by pointing out the country's extravagant spending on luxury items such as cigars, champagne, and dogs, which far exceed the cost of missions. They cite statistics learned from their involvement in a Mission Band, where they hold roles as secretary and treasurer. The sisters' arguments, supported by facts from a dialogue written by Dr. Stephens, a college and seminary graduate, highlight the inconsistency in Rufus's reasoning. Their playful yet pointed rebuttal leaves Rufus reconsidering his stance, as he acknowledges their maturity and the strength of their argument. The story uses this familial exchange to explore themes of logic, priorities, and the value of charitable work.
By Pansy · First published 1884 · Genre: Satire, Humor, Social Commentary · 510 words
First lines
RUFUS lay at full length on the sofa, and puffed a cigar, back parlor though it was; when Mr. Parker reminded him of it, he said there were no ladies present, and puffed away. Between the puffs he talked:
"There is one argument against foreign mission work which is unanswerable; the country cannot afford it. Two millions and a half of money taken out this year, and sent to the cannibals, or somewhere else. No country can stand such a drain as that upon it, with everything else it has to do. Foreign missions are ruinously expensive."
What this Textopian page supports
Danger Cliff, and Other Stories: A Bit of Logic is listed on Textopian as a short story by Pansy, dated 1884 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Pansy
- Date: 1884 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Humor, Social Commentary, Philosophical Fiction, Short Story
- Length: 510 words
- Structure: 1 section, 12 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Danger Cliff, and Other Stories: A Bit of Logic by Pansy
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Genres
- Satire — Uses irony and exaggeration to critique societal and institutional norms, particularly in financial and missionary debates.
- Humor — Features witty dialogue and playful banter that drive a comedic tone throughout the narrative.
- Social Commentary — Addresses and critiques societal priorities and economic choices through its discussion of logic and resource allocation.
- Philosophical Fiction — Incorporates discussions on logic and reason, linking abstract thought to real-world decisions and values.
Tags
short stories · logic · puzzle · philosophy · literary fiction · experimental · narrative · innovative · dark humor · surreal · psychological · brainteaser