Beadle's Pocket Library No. 455

# A Hot Trail: Clark's Big Bonanza

This Beadle and Adams dime novel, authored by Charles Morris, follows Clark Cloverly, a young American traveling through Siberia disguised in Russian dress, accompanied by two Russian servants, Peter and Ivan. The narrative opens in the garrison town of Trobilsk during early winter as the trio arrives seeking food and lodging. Clark's confident demeanor and fine French clothing immediately distinguish him from ordinary travelers, prompting the local innkeeper to assume he is a person of consequence.

When a Russian lieutenant arrives with orders from the commandant demanding Clark's immediate appearance for passport inspection, Clark audaciously refuses, prioritizing his dinner. His defiant response—threatening to make things difficult for the officer—demonstrates his characteristic boldness. Though soldiers are brought to enforce the commandant's orders, Clark maintains his composure and composure, eventually agreeing to accompany the lieutenant while remaining unmoved by threats of arrest. The narrative emphasizes Clark's resourcefulness and nerve in dangerous situations throughout Russian territory.