The Argosy, Vol. XI No. 20

Brad Mattoon: or, Life at Hosmer Hall by William D. Moffat is a serialized school story. A mysterious boy named Brad Mattoon arrives at Hosmer Hall, a prestigious academy for twenty carefully selected students, carrying only a valise and wearing worn brown corduroy. He reveals during conversation that he has spent his entire life traveling and sailing, learning to read and cipher aboard ship from Captain Buon during voyages to Australia. Guardian Raymond Parker, a prominent New York lawyer, has arranged his sudden admission. The narrative introduces Hosmer Hall's history—founded by philanthropist Reginald Hosmer to develop boys into men of honor, now under pressure from his nephew Gordon Ivers, the estate's new owner. Principal Dr. Hope warmly welcomes Brad despite students' initial contempt at his rough appearance and working-class presentation. The story begins a likely conflict between Brad's unconventional background and the academy's aristocratic culture.