Laughing Bill Hyde and Other Stories By: Rex Ellingwood Beach (1877-1949)
Laughing Bill Hyde and Other Stories by Rex Ellingwood Beach is a collection of captivating and riveting stories that encapsulate the essence of the rugged West. Beach takes readers on an exhilarating journey, exploring the trials and tribulations faced by individuals grappling with the wild landscapes and untamed society. One of the standout stories in this collection is "Laughing Bill Hyde," which tells the tale of a notorious outlaw with a unique sense of humor. Beach masterfully portrays the complexity of Hyde's character, combining a sinister edge with a surprisingly likable nature. Through vivid descriptions and witty dialogues, the author manages to humanize this hardened criminal, making him an unforgettable presence within the narrative. In addition to "Laughing Bill Hyde," the collection offers a range of other tales that showcase Beach's talent for crafting compelling characters. From the desperate gambler in "The Coral Reef" to the determined prospector in "Round the Circle," each story features individuals struggling to find their place amidst the harsh conditions of the West. Through these characters, Beach delves into themes such as ambition, morality, and the pursuit of happiness. One aspect that truly sets Beach's writing apart is his ability to transport readers into the heart of the Western landscape. With his detailed prose, readers can vividly imagine the vast plains dotted with cattle ranches, the bustling saloons, and the treacherous mountain trails. This strong sense of place further immerses readers in the stories, making them feel like active participants in the Wild West. Moreover, Beach's storytelling is perfectly balanced, seamlessly combining moments of intense action and gripping suspense with introspective passages that explore deeper emotions. This skillful blend keeps readers engaged and invested in the fates of the characters, eager to know how their stories unfold. While Laughing Bill Hyde and Other Stories offers an enthralling glimpse into the world of the Wild West, it also serves as a commentary on the human condition. Through his multifaceted characters and thought-provoking narratives, Beach explores themes of justice, redemption, and the complexities of right and wrong. This added layer of depth elevates the collection beyond mere adventure tales, transforming it into a commentary on the moral challenges faced by individuals in a lawless society. In conclusion, Laughing Bill Hyde and Other Stories by Rex Ellingwood Beach is a must-read for those who appreciate engaging tales of the Wild West. With its memorable characters, vivid settings, and insightful exploration of human nature, this collection will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on readers. Whether one is a fan of Western literature or simply enjoys a well-crafted story, this book offers a rewarding and captivating reading experience. First Page: LAUGHING BILL HYDE And Other Stories By REX BEACH AUTHOR OF "Rainbow's End," "Heart of the Sunset," "The Spoilers," Etc. 1917 [Illustration: "LIKE ME?" HE ASKED. PONATAH TURNED AWAY BLINDLY] Mr. William Hyde was discharged from Deer Lodge Penitentiary a changed man. That was quite in line with the accepted theory of criminal jurisprudence, the warden's discipline, and the chaplain's prayers. Yes, Mr. Hyde was changed, and the change had bitten deep; his humorous contempt for the law had turned to abiding hatred; his sunburned cheeks were pallid, his lungs were weak, and he coughed considerably. Balanced against these results, to be sure, were the benefits accruing from three years of corrective discipline at the State's expense; the knack of conversing through stone walls, which Mr. Hyde had mastered, and the plaiting of wonderful horsehair bridles, which he had learned. Otherwise he was the same "Laughing Bill" his friends had known, neither more nor less regenerate. Since the name of Montana promised to associate itself with unpleasant memories, Mr. Hyde determined at once to bury his past and begin life anew in a climate more suited to weak lungs. To that end he stuck up a peaceful citizen of Butte who was hurrying homeward with an armful of bundles, and in the warm dusk of a pleasant evening relieved him of eighty three dollars, a Swiss watch with an elk's tooth fob, a pearl handled penknife, a key ring, and a bottle of digestive tablets... Continue reading book >>

Laughing Bill Hyde and Other Stories By: Rex Ellingwood Beach (1877-1949)

Laughing Bill Hyde and Other Stories by Rex Ellingwood Beach is a collection of captivating and riveting stories that encapsulate the essence of the rugged West. Beach takes readers on an exhilarating journey, exploring the trials and tribulations faced by individuals grappling with the wild landscapes and untamed society.

One of the standout stories in this collection is "Laughing Bill Hyde," which tells the tale of a notorious outlaw with a unique sense of humor. Beach masterfully portrays the complexity of Hyde's character, combining a sinister edge with a surprisingly likable nature. Through vivid descriptions and witty dialogues, the author manages to humanize this hardened criminal, making him an unforgettable presence within the narrative.

In addition to "Laughing Bill Hyde," the collection offers a range of other tales that showcase Beach's talent for crafting compelling characters. From the desperate gambler in "The Coral Reef" to the determined prospector in "Round the Circle," each story features individuals struggling to find their place amidst the harsh conditions of the West. Through these characters, Beach delves into themes such as ambition, morality, and the pursuit of happiness.

One aspect that truly sets Beach's writing apart is his ability to transport readers into the heart of the Western landscape. With his detailed prose, readers can vividly imagine the vast plains dotted with cattle ranches, the bustling saloons, and the treacherous mountain trails. This strong sense of place further immerses readers in the stories, making them feel like active participants in the Wild West.

Moreover, Beach's storytelling is perfectly balanced, seamlessly combining moments of intense action and gripping suspense with introspective passages that explore deeper emotions. This skillful blend keeps readers engaged and invested in the fates of the characters, eager to know how their stories unfold.

While Laughing Bill Hyde and Other Stories offers an enthralling glimpse into the world of the Wild West, it also serves as a commentary on the human condition. Through his multifaceted characters and thought-provoking narratives, Beach explores themes of justice, redemption, and the complexities of right and wrong. This added layer of depth elevates the collection beyond mere adventure tales, transforming it into a commentary on the moral challenges faced by individuals in a lawless society.

In conclusion, Laughing Bill Hyde and Other Stories by Rex Ellingwood Beach is a must-read for those who appreciate engaging tales of the Wild West. With its memorable characters, vivid settings, and insightful exploration of human nature, this collection will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on readers. Whether one is a fan of Western literature or simply enjoys a well-crafted story, this book offers a rewarding and captivating reading experience.

First Page:

LAUGHING BILL HYDE

And Other Stories

By REX BEACH

AUTHOR OF

"Rainbow's End," "Heart of the Sunset," "The Spoilers," Etc.

1917

[Illustration: "LIKE ME?" HE ASKED. PONATAH TURNED AWAY BLINDLY]

Mr. William Hyde was discharged from Deer Lodge Penitentiary a changed man. That was quite in line with the accepted theory of criminal jurisprudence, the warden's discipline, and the chaplain's prayers. Yes, Mr. Hyde was changed, and the change had bitten deep; his humorous contempt for the law had turned to abiding hatred; his sunburned cheeks were pallid, his lungs were weak, and he coughed considerably. Balanced against these results, to be sure, were the benefits accruing from three years of corrective discipline at the State's expense; the knack of conversing through stone walls, which Mr. Hyde had mastered, and the plaiting of wonderful horsehair bridles, which he had learned. Otherwise he was the same "Laughing Bill" his friends had known, neither more nor less regenerate.

Since the name of Montana promised to associate itself with unpleasant memories, Mr. Hyde determined at once to bury his past and begin life anew in a climate more suited to weak lungs. To that end he stuck up a peaceful citizen of Butte who was hurrying homeward with an armful of bundles, and in the warm dusk of a pleasant evening relieved him of eighty three dollars, a Swiss watch with an elk's tooth fob, a pearl handled penknife, a key ring, and a bottle of digestive tablets... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Literature
Short stories
Westerns

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Wikipedia – Rex Ellingwood Beach
Wikipedia – Laughing Bill Hyde and Other Stories

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