Beadle's Dime Library No. 661

This issue of Beadle and Adams' weekly No. 661 (1891) contains "The Get-There Sharp" by Jos. E. Badger Jr., featuring protagonist Grip-Sack Sid (Sidney Harper).

In Chapter I, "A Fire in the Mountains," Harper and driver Tipsy Todd navigate a stage from Probability to Rocky Comfort through a massive forest fire. Todd refuses Harper's offered brandy, insisting his nickname irony—he never drinks. When a burning tree blocks the road behind them, retreat becomes impossible. Other passengers debate options: Dan Gregg chooses to wait out the fire in the rocks; Billy Carter and Anthony Porter (traveling with his daughter Enid) remain aboard. Harper convinces Anthony that pushing forward offers better odds, though he privately judges the determined Todd capable of succeeding where others would fail.

Chapter II, "Running the Gantlet," begins with Harper's assessment of the situation and Todd's character as the stage prepares to dash through the inferno. Harper establishes his personal motto as "get there, sharp," promising to take the reins if Todd wavers. Todd studies his passenger with growing respect as they prepare to attempt the dangerous passage through flames.