The Croxley Master

Name: The Croxley Master
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

In a grim industrial town, Robert Montgomery, a medical assistant, faces financial despair as he cannot afford the fees to complete his medical degree. His situation worsens when he is denied help from his employer, Dr. Oldacre. One day, a confrontation with a rude miner named Ted Barton leads to a physical altercation, where Montgomery unexpectedly knocks Barton out. This incident catches the attention of local sports enthusiasts who propose that Montgomery replace Barton in an upcoming boxing match against the formidable Silas Craggs, known as the Master of Croxley. Despite initial reluctance, Montgomery sees the fight as a chance to earn the money he desperately needs. He begins training rigorously, utilizing the support of local backers who believe in his potential. As the fight day approaches, Montgomery learns more about Craggs, including his past injuries and reputation as a tough fighter. The match is set for a Sunday, and the community buzzes with excitement. On the day of the fight, Montgomery arrives amidst cheers from the miners, who view him as their champion. The atmosphere is electric as he faces Craggs, who is physically imposing but has a significant disadvantage due to a leg injury. The fight begins, and Montgomery employs his speed and agility to score points, but he also faces the brute strength of Craggs. As the rounds progress, Montgomery endures heavy blows but remains determined. In a pivotal moment, Montgomery is knocked down by a powerful uppercut from Craggs, but he manages to recover and continues to fight. The crowd is captivated by the struggle, and Montgomery's resilience begins to turn the tide. He ultimately lands a decisive blow that knocks Craggs out, winning the match and the prize money. After the fight, Montgomery is celebrated as a local hero, but he remains focused on his goal of becoming a doctor. He returns to Dr. Oldacre, bruised but triumphant, and informs him of his intention to pursue his medical education. The story concludes with Montgomery's determination to rise above his circumstances, using his victory not just for personal gain but as a stepping stone towards his future in medicine.

By Sir Arthur Conan Doyle · First published 1893 · Genre: Mystery, Adventure, Detective Fiction · 3 chapters · 22,550 words

First lines

Mr. Robert Montgomery was seated at his desk, his head upon his hands, in a state of the blackest despondency. Before him was the open ledger with the long columns of Dr. Oldacre's prescriptions. At his elbow lay the wooden tray with the labels in various partitions, the cork box, the lumps of twisted sealing-wax, while in front a rank of bottles waited to be filled. But his spirits were too low for work. He sat in silence with his fine shoulders bowed and his head upon his hands.

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The Croxley Master is listed on Textopian as a novel by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, dated 1893 CE.

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Work type: Novel
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Date: 1893 CE
Language: English
Genres: Mystery, Adventure, Detective Fiction, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction
Length: 22,550 words
Structure: 3 chapters, 363 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Genres

Mystery — The plot revolves around a central mystery that needs to be solved, typical of Doyle's work.
Adventure — The narrative includes elements of adventure as characters engage in thrilling and risky situations.
Detective Fiction — Features investigative elements and a detective-like approach to unraveling the plot.
Historical Fiction — Set in a specific historical context, reflecting the social and cultural aspects of the time.