The Card-Sharp
The narrative follows an American bachelor who, instead of enjoying a traditional Christmas in Suffolk, finds himself aboard a ship bound for New York due to a last-minute medical obligation. Onboard, he encounters Talbot, a charming yet dubious young man who claims to be an American educated at Oxford but has a mysterious past involving gambling and deception. Talbot engages the narrator in conversation, revealing his struggles with gambling addiction and his desperate need for money. He confesses to being "in bad" and seeks help to stabilize his nerves, hinting at a life of crime and evasion. The narrator, a doctor, is conflicted about Talbot's request for assistance, recognizing the ethical dilemma of aiding someone who is likely a con artist. As the voyage progresses, Talbot's gambling habits resurface, and he becomes embroiled in a poker game with other passengers. Despite his bravado, he is under scrutiny, and his attempts to manipulate the situation lead to accusations of cheating. Tensions rise as he is confronted by fellow passengers, particularly Smedburg, who recognizes him as a known card-sharp and threatens to expose him. The climax occurs when Talbot, cornered and desperate, attempts to escape the consequences of his actions. He is found to have shot himself in a moment of despair, revealing the depth of his turmoil. As he lies injured, he is confronted by Adolph Meyer, a wealthy banker who claims to be his brother. This revelation adds a layer of complexity to Talbot's character, suggesting a troubled family history and a longing for redemption. The story explores themes of identity, desperation, and the consequences of a life built on deception. Talbot's tragic arc serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of gambling and the search for belonging, ultimately culminating in a poignant moment of recognition and familial connection.
By Richard Harding Davis · First published 1896 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Drama, Psychological Thriller · 5,181 words
First lines
I had looked forward to spending Christmas with some people in Suffolk, and every one in London assured me that at their house there would be the kind of a Christmas house party you hear about but see only in the illustrated Christmas numbers. They promised mistletoe, snapdragon, and Sir Roger de Coverley. On Christmas morning we would walk to church, after luncheon we would shoot, after dinner we would eat plum pudding floating in blazing brandy, dance with the servants, and listen to the waits singing "God rest you, merry gentlemen, let nothing you dismay."
What this Textopian page supports
The Card-Sharp is listed on Textopian as a short story by Richard Harding Davis, dated 1896 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Richard Harding Davis
- Date: 1896 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Drama, Psychological Thriller, Adventure, Crime Fiction
- Length: 5,181 words
- Structure: 1 section, 125 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Card-Sharp by Richard Harding Davis
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Card-Sharp?
- How does this short story by Richard Harding Davis fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- The Escape Of Mr Trimm by Irvin S. Cobb
- The Man Who Could Not Lose by Richard Harding Davis
- The Poser by H. C. Mcneile
- An Arrow At A Venture by H. C. Mcneile
Genres
- Literary Fiction — The narrative explores complex themes of identity, morality, and the human condition through character development and introspective dialogue.
- Drama — The story features intense emotional conflicts and character interactions that drive the plot, focusing on personal struggles and ethical dilemmas.
- Psychological Thriller — The tension surrounding the protagonist's gambling and deceitful behavior creates a suspenseful atmosphere, leading to a dramatic climax.
- Adventure — The setting aboard a ship and the protagonist's journey reflect elements of adventure, as he navigates social interactions and personal challenges.
Tags
Adventure · Crime · Drama · Mystery · Novel · Short Story Collection · American Literature · 19th Century Literature · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Gaming