The Crusade of the Excelsior

Name: The Crusade of the Excelsior
Author: Bret Harte

A sea voyage carrying emigrants and cabin passengers becomes the scene for tension when a concealed traveler is found in the ship's hold and admits he wishes to vanish rather than be recognized. A leading figure aboard intervenes, ordering the man freed from irons and pressing him for his motives, and moments of stern authority alternate with unexpected kindness. The narrative traces the shifting relations among crew and passengers, exploring secrecy, the desire for reinvention, and how chance encounters and moral choices shape the traveler's immediate fate.

By Bret Harte

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Adventure American Literature Novels

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About the Author

Bret Harte

Bret Harte (1836-1902) was an American author and poet known for his vivid depictions of life in the American West during the Gold Rush era. His works often explore themes of adventure, morality, and the complexities of human nature. Harte gained prominence with his short stories, particularly "The Luck of Roaring Camp" and "The Outcasts of Poker Flat," which showcase his ability to blend humor and pathos. His writing is characterized by a keen observation of character and a rich, descriptive style. In addition to his short stories, Harte wrote novels such as "A Millionaire of Rough-and-Ready" and "A Ward of the Golden Gate," contributing significantly to the literary heritage of the American frontier.