The narrative unfolds during a winter holiday at a medical school, where three boys—Tom, Fred, and Albert Kobb—remain behind while their peers return home. Fred, the older brother, is brash and boastful, while Albert, the younger, is quiet and studious, earning the nickname "Parson" for his moral integrity. The boys engage in a lively discussion about a recent robbery in their village, sharing tales of bravery and daring. As night falls, the boys hear a noise at the back hall window, which prompts Albert to take action. He insists on confronting the intruder, while Fred hesitates, revealing his fear. Albert retrieves an old musket, and Fred grabs a baseball bat, though he is visibly shaken. Tom, lacking courage, stays behind, peeking from the doorway. The tension escalates when a figure enters through the window, and Fred panics, mistaking the intruder for a burglar. In a comical turn, the intruder is revealed to be Pat, the doctor's servant, who had intended to enter quietly but startled the boys instead. Pat's arrival leads to a humorous exchange, as Fred's bravado crumbles, and he is found hiding under a bed, terrified. The next morning, the doctor calls the boys to account for the commotion. Pat explains his actions, and the boys recount their reactions, leading to laughter and a lesson on the nature of bravery. The doctor advises them to call for help next time instead of confronting danger themselves. Ultimately, Fred's boastful claims of bravery are silenced, illustrating that true courage is often revealed in moments of fear. The story concludes with a reflection on the disparity between words and actions, emphasizing that those who boast of bravery may falter when faced with real danger.
By Sarah Orne Jewett · First published 1882 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Coming-of-Age, Humor