Incaland: A Story of Adventure in the Interior of Peru and the Closing Chapters of the War with Chile

"Incaland" by Claude H. Wetmore is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows three young explorers, Harvey Dartmoor, Horace Hope-Jones, and John Ferguson, as they journey into the interior of Peru during the late 19th century, seeking gold and adventure amidst the backdrop of the country’s recovery from the Chile-Peruvian War. Their quest is sparked by a dying Indian's tale of lost Incan treasure, leading them into a land rich with history and danger. The opening of the novel introduces us to the three central characters as they traverse the challenging heights of the Andes, where they experience both the beauty of the snow-covered mountains and the immediate perils of nature, such as a falling boulder. As they prepare to embark on their treasure hunt, the narrative reveals Harvey's family background and the financial struggles that push him into the adventure, alongside his companions who share a sportsman's camaraderie. After deciding to investigate the old Indian's claim about a hidden mine, they gather supplies and make plans for their journey deeper into the Andes, promising a blend of excitement and peril as they face the unknown challenges ahead.