The Hunted Hunter

The Hunted Hunter: The Strange Horseman of the Prairie

Edward S. Ellis's serialized romance concerns Don Alfredo Seraville of New Orleans, who contracts Colonel Charles Ovaton to prolong an expedition into Texas for six months at two thousand dollars compensation. Seraville's purpose: to separate his daughter Irona from Ross Welland, a young American with whom she has developed an unwanted attachment. Seraville, proud of his Spanish heritage, refuses to allow his daughter to associate with an American, considering such a union beneath their family honor. Ovaton initially suggests eliminating Welland permanently, but Seraville refuses, demanding only separation. Shortly after Ovaton's departure, Welland himself visits Irona, confirming their romantic connection. The narrative establishes the central conflict: Seraville's class and nationalist prejudices against the forthcoming departure that will divide the lovers.