My Terminal Moraine 1892

"My Terminal Moraine" by Frank R. Stockton is a tale of a young man's journey out of despair and into fortune. After his father passes away, Walter Cuthbert struggles to find purpose, his life only changing when he develops feelings for Agnes Havelot. However, Walter feels he cannot pursue her because of his financial situation and Agnes' father's disapproval. The plot thickens when, inspired by a geologist friend to improve his land, Walter unearths a large ice deposit. This discovery becomes his ticket to wealth, an opportunity that could solve all his problems. The narrative follows Walter as he navigates his newfound prosperity, leading to a climactic moment where he gets trapped within the mine. Ultimately, he is saved by Agnes, leading to the acceptance of their love and symbolizing his overall rise in society, showcasing how life and fortune can dramatically shift.