The Y. M. C. A. boys of Cliffwood; $b or, The struggle for the Holwell Prize

A group of spirited boys from the Cliffwood YMCA gathers on a crisp Halloween night, their chatter filled with jokes and daring plans. The leader, Dick, steers the gang through a lively debate about a prank on the town’s cantankerous storekeeper, Jed Nocker, whose reputation for harsh discipline makes him the perfect target. Their excitement builds as they head toward a quiet sandlot, mapping out a scheme that promises both mischief and the thrill of out‑witting an adult.

Beyond the Halloween caper, the boys find themselves drawn into the town’s annual Holwell Prize contest, a challenge that tests their resourcefulness, teamwork, and sense of responsibility. As they balance school, sports, and community duties, each adventure teaches them a little more about loyalty, courage, and the value of doing the right thing. Listeners will enjoy the lively banter, the vivid small‑town atmosphere, and the earnest growth of these young friends as they navigate the ups and downs of early adolescence.