The Log of the "Jolly Polly"

"The Log of the 'Jolly Polly'" by Richard Harding Davis is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work follows the struggles of a fading author, Fletcher Farrell, as he navigates his faltering literary career and encounters unexpected opportunities for wealth and belonging, specifically through an eccentric couple eager to adopt him. The narrative balances themes of identity, familial relationships, and the allure of wealth against one's integrity. The story begins with Fletcher Farrell, once a popular novelist, facing an identity crisis as his popularity wanes and his financial situation becomes precarious. Temptation strikes when he meets Mr. and Mrs. Farrell, who propose to adopt him in a bid to both secure their fortune and gain social status through association with a famous author. Initially dismissive, Fletcher’s journey leads him to Fairharbor, where he becomes enamored with the beautiful Polly Briggs and learns more about the peculiarities of the Farrells and their lavish lifestyle. Throughout the novel, Fletcher grapples with his desire for independence while also confronting the enticement of wealth and acceptance, ultimately discovering that love and personal integrity are more valuable than monetary gain and social prestige. In a twist of fate, he finds that his connection to Polly is more significant than his ties to the Farrells, leading to an unexpected conclusion that redefines his understanding of family and belonging. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Richard Harding Davis was an American journalist and writer of fiction and drama, known foremost as the first American war correspondent to cover the Spanish–American War, the Second Boer War, and World War I. His writing greatly assisted the political career of Theodore Roosevelt. He also played a major role in the evolution of the American magazine. His influence extended to the world of fashion, and he is credited with making the clean-shaven look popular among men at the turn of the 20th century.