On Time; or, Bound to Get There

"On Time; or, Bound to Get There" by Oliver Optic is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. This story centers around a young man named Wolfert Penniman, who is motivated by a desire for independence and business success, as he seeks to turn a profit from a sailboat he plans to purchase. Alongside themes of entrepreneurship and ambition, the narrative suggests an exploration of personal growth through the struggles faced by its characters. At the start of the novel, Wolf is engaged in a discussion with his father about purchasing a boat at an auction and expresses his intent to make money from it by offering rides to fishermen and pleasure-seekers. The father is skeptical but ultimately decides to support Wolf with financial backing. As Wolf attends the auction, he encounters Waddie Wimpleton, a bully who has harassed him in the past. Tensions rise as they both compete for the boat, leading to a physical altercation that sees Waddie thrown into the lake. The stage is set for their complicated relationship as Wolf acquires the boat, foreshadowing further adventures and challenges ahead.