Harper's Young People, February 21, 1882 An Illustrated Weekly

A stormy February night finds young Jesse hurrying through a creaking farmhouse, determined to keep Miss Holsover’s hidden treasure out of the hands of a menacing intruder named Bill. The house is dark save for the glow of a couple of candles, and every howl of wind seems to echo Jesse’s racing heart. With a screwdriver and a fierce resolve, he pries open a locked cupboard, uncovers a tin box and a mysterious package tied with a faded ribbon, and bolts for the road before the thief can strike.

Jesse’s frantic sprint carries him to the North household, where the kindly Mr. and Mrs. North are startled by the sudden appearance of the drenched, trembling boy clutching his prize. Their surprise is palpable, and the scene leaves listeners wondering what secrets lie within the hidden package and how Jesse’s brave act will reshape the lives of everyone involved.