The Long Arm

Name: The Long Arm
Author: Richard Harding Davis

The narrative follows Captain Swanson, an officer in the army, who faces a court-martial after a significant sum of money goes missing from the regiment's safe. Despite his innocence, the court's findings leave him with a tarnished reputation, leading to his resignation in a fit of rage. Swanson's internal turmoil intensifies as he grapples with feelings of shame and betrayal, believing that everyone now views him as a thief. In his quest for solace, he travels through various states, ultimately longing for a life of anonymity in Cuba, away from the judgment of his peers. During a stop in Key West, he encounters a naval station, which stirs memories of his former life and amplifies his sense of loss. As he contemplates suicide, he reflects on the honor he once held and the camaraderie he has lost. Just as he prepares to end his life, an orderly interrupts him with a message from Admiral Preble, revealing that Rueff, the sergeant he suspected of the theft, has confessed to the crime before taking his own life. This revelation clears Swanson's name, but he is left in a state of shock and disbelief. The story concludes with Swanson experiencing a profound sense of relief and gratitude, as he realizes that his innocence has been acknowledged, yet he remains haunted by the events that transpired. The narrative explores themes of honor, betrayal, and the psychological impact of societal judgment, ultimately highlighting the fragility of reputation and the quest for redemption.

By Richard Harding Davis · First published 1903 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Military Fiction, Psychological Drama · 5,019 words

First lines

The safe was an old one that opened with a key. As adjutant, Captain Swanson had charge of certain funds of the regiment and kept in the safe about five thousand dollars. No one but himself and Rueff, his first sergeant, had access to it. And as Rueff proved an alibi, the money might have been removed by an outsider. The court-martial gave Swanson the benefit of the doubt, and a reprimand for not taking greater care of the keys, and Swanson made good the five thousand.

What this Textopian page supports

The Long Arm is listed on Textopian as a short story by Richard Harding Davis, dated 1903 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: 1903 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Military Fiction, Psychological Drama, Tragedy, Historical Fiction
Length: 5,019 words
Structure: 1 section, 60 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Literary Fiction — The book explores deep themes of honor, guilt, and personal identity through character-driven narrative and introspective writing.
Military Fiction — The plot centers around a military officer's court-martial and the implications of military honor and duty.
Psychological Drama — The protagonist's internal struggles and emotional turmoil are central to the narrative, focusing on his mental state and moral dilemmas.
Tragedy — The story culminates in a tragic resolution, highlighting the consequences of societal judgment and personal failure.