Frank Merriwell's Fame

This issue of Tip Top Weekly (No. 138, December 3, 1898) features "Frank Merriwell's Fame; or, The Road to Success," the continuing saga of the eponymous protagonist. After the triumphant opening night of Merriwell's play "John Smith of Montana" in a Missouri town—notably featuring a sensational sawmill scene—he is called onstage to deliver an impromptu speech as the previously uncredited author. Behind the scenes, tensions mount: stage manager Roscoe Havener and actress Elsie Bellwood celebrate, while company backer Parker Folansbee grows inebriated. Percy Lockwell, an envious company member, makes veiled insulting remarks. Frank discovers Lockwell and Folansbee drinking during the performance, violating his established rules. Actor Leslie Lawrence defies these prohibitions, revealing brewing conflict. The installment concludes as Lawrence's resentment toward Frank—stemming from their earlier professional rivalry—becomes apparent.