In the Clouds for Uncle Sam; or, Morey Marshall of the Signal Corps

"In the Clouds for Uncle Sam; or, Morey Marshall of the Signal Corps" by H. L. Sayler is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Mortimer "Morey" Marshall, a young man navigating the realities of life after the decline of his family's plantation, Aspley Place. As Morey grapples with financial struggles and his aspirations of becoming an aviator, the narrative unfolds against the backdrop of early aviation and the effects of familial legacy. The opening of the novel introduces Morey and his friend Amos, who engage in playful banter and competition while revealing aspects of their lives on a fading Virginia plantation. Faced with the looming responsibilities of adulthood, Morey discovers the dire financial situation of his family as he returns from school and learns that the estate is heavily mortgaged. The chapter sets a tone of youthful determination and innocence, contrasting with the harsh realities of their financial predicament, while hinting at Morey's ambitious dreams of aviation as he contemplates building his own airplane. The interactions with Amos also establish the contrast of social classes during this period, making readers curious about Morey's challenges ahead.