Harper's Young People, November 18, 1879

A spirited schoolyard rivalry erupts when two inseparable friends, James and Henry, both vie for the attention of a coquettish classmate. Their competition turns into a makeshift medieval tournament, complete with broom‑lances and barrel‑head shields, turning the back yard into a dramatic arena. The clang of a tin horn signals the charge, and the boys’ playful bravado quickly escalates into a surprising showdown that decides who will accompany their classmate to school.

Across the Alps, a young Swiss climber named Walter finds himself locked in a desperate struggle against a fierce vulture on a frozen crag. With only a pocket‑knife and sheer determination, he fights for his life, turning the encounter into a test of courage and quick thinking. The episode captures the raw intensity of mountain adventure, showcasing the resourcefulness and resilience of a youth thrust into a perilous wilderness.