The Torch and Other Tales

"The Torch and Other Tales" by Eden Phillpotts is a compilation of short stories that likely occurred in the early 1900s, diving into complicated relationships and right-versus-wrong situations through different characters and storylines. One story gets underway when Teddy Pegram, a stranger, arrives in Little Silver and wins over the townspeople with his friendly personality. He becomes friends with a young boy named Joey Ford. Pegram’s past comes back to haunt him when people start to think that he is participating in poaching. This leads to problems and tests the town's view of him. The story highlights Teddy Pegram’s introduction to the village of Little Silver, showing how he quickly gains the affection of the locals. Pegram and young Joey become fast friends, as Pegram enjoys the role of somebody who gives gifts. When rumors start going around about Pegram possibly poaching, relationships fracture and questions begin to arise about loyalty and honesty.