The Ordeal of Colonel Johns

"The Ordeal of Colonel Johns" by George H. Smith is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The story blends historical elements with speculative concepts, focusing on the experiences of a Revolutionary War hero who unexpectedly meets his modern descendant. The likely topic revolves around the intersection of history and family legacy, exploring themes of identity and the impact of past actions on the present. In this engaging narrative, the protagonist, Clark Decker, assists Professor MacCulloch in demonstrating an innovative invention known as the historical Reintegrator, which reconstructs historical figures from the past. During a convention of the Patriot Daughters of America, Colonel Peter Johns is brought forth, only to find himself confused and astonished by the modern world and his great-great-great-great-granddaughter, Rebecca Johns-Hayes. As the Colonel grapples with his legacy and the reality of being a historical figure, he becomes increasingly disillusioned by the values of contemporary society, ultimately deciding to return to his own time, leaving behind a poignant commentary on the evolution of ideals and heritage.