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Cover of Harley Greenoak's Charge

Harley Greenoak's Charge

Written by Bertram Mitford

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South Africa

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About this book

"Harley Greenoak's Charge" by Bertram Mitford is a fictional novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story follows the adventurous experiences of Harley Greenoak, a seasoned hunter and prospector, who is tasked with looking after young Dick Selmes while they navigate life in South Africa. The narrative introduces themes of danger, camaraderie, and the wild adventures that accompany a life led in the untamed landscapes of the African continent. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to Greenoak aboard a ship along with Sir Anson Selmes, who expresses concern for his son Dick’s safety during a journey inland. Their initial interaction foreshadows the camaraderie that will develop between Greenoak and Dick. The opening sets up a dramatic turn of events when a "man overboard" incident occurs, leading to Greenoak’s heroic intervention to save Dick, establishing the foundation for their friendship. As the narrative unfolds, Greenoak is faced with the responsibility of guiding Dick through various challenges, revealing their dynamic relationship amidst the backdrop of an adventurous and perilous landscape.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Harley Greenoak's Charge, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • Adventurous
  • Perilous
  • Camaraderie

Bertram Mitford's "Harley Greenoak's Charge" is a late 19th-century adventure novel set against the perilous backdrop of South Africa. The narrative centers on the seasoned hunter and prospector, Harley Greenoak, who unexpectedly becomes the guardian of young Dick Selmes. Their bond is forged early during a dramatic 'man overboard' incident, where Greenoak heroically saves Dick, establishing a foundation of trust and responsibility. As they journey deeper into the untamed African continent, Greenoak guides Dick through numerous dangers and challenges, fostering a dynamic relationship shaped by camaraderie and the harsh realities of wilderness survival. The novel explores themes of mentorship, resilience, and the allure of colonial exploration amidst a landscape teeming with both beauty and threat.

“The veldt stretched before them, a canvas of both beauty and untold peril, demanding respect from any who dared to tread its ancient paths.”

Key themes

Responsibility and Mentorship
This theme is central to the novel, embodied by Greenoak's solemn promise to Sir Anson and his unwavering dedication to protecting and guiding Dick. It explores the moral weight of a guardian's duty and the profound impact a mentor can have on a young life, particularly in challenging circumstances.
The Untamed Wilderness
The vast, wild landscapes of South Africa are not merely a backdrop but an active force in the narrative. This theme explores humanity's relationship with nature, portraying the wilderness as both beautiful and brutally unforgiving, a place where civilization's rules give way to primal instincts and the raw struggle for survival.
Camaraderie and Loyalty
Forged in the crucible of shared danger and mutual reliance, the bond between Greenoak and Dick exemplifies the power of camaraderie. This theme explores how deep loyalty and friendship can develop between individuals from different backgrounds when united by common purpose and extreme circumstances, becoming a vital component of survival.

Worth discussing

How does the 'man overboard' incident immediately establish the core themes and relationships of the novel?

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