The Motor Boys Across the Plains; or, The Hermit of Lost Lake

"The Motor Boys Across the Plains; or, The Hermit of Lost Lake" by Clarence Young is a novel written in the early 20th century. This adventure story is the fourth installment in "The Motor Boys" series and follows three boys—Bob, Ned, and Jerry—along with their companion, Professor Snodgrass, as they undertake a journey filled with peril and excitement in the western United States. The narrative revolves around their antics and mishaps involving their automobile, encounters with wild animals, and a tension-filled rescue of a kidnapped boy, Tommy Bell, from hostile gang members. At the start of the novel, the boys experience an accident involving an ox cart while driving their car in Mexico, which sets the stage for their ensuing adventures. Following this incident, they encounter an array of dramatic situations, including a thrilling escape from a multitude of snakes and discovering a deserted cabin. They soon find themselves embroiled in saving Tommy Bell from a gang of ruffians who are torturing him to extract information from his father. As the story unfolds, the boys band together to navigate challenges, showcase their bravery, and try to make their way back to safety, all while dealing with the humorous mishaps that arise from their journey in an automobile.