Under Canvas; or, The Hunt for the Cartaret Ghost

"Under Canvas; or, The Hunt for the Cartaret Ghost" by Captain Alan Douglas is a fictional novel likely written in the early 20th century, as indicated by its language and themes. The story revolves around a group of young boys from the Hickory Ridge Boy Scouts, led by Elmer Chenowith, who embark on an adventurous outing to gather nuts while exploring the legendary Cartaret estate, rumored to be haunted by ghostly figures. The opening portion introduces the boys as they set off on their journey, full of excitement and curiosity about their destination. Elmer and his friends are eager to discover the infamous nut grove associated with the old Cartaret place, despite some of them harboring superstitious fears about the ghosts said to inhabit the ruins. As they travel, playful banter and character traits are revealed, setting the tone for camaraderie and adventure. The boys soon find themselves facing unexpected challenges, including a runaway horse and encounters with local troublemakers, while the allure of the mysterious Cartaret Ghost looms in their minds, promising psychological thrills amid their boyish exploits.