Beadle's Dime Library No. 120: The Texan Spy

About this issue

The Prairie Guide, by Newton M. Curtis, is the featured serial in this issue. Set in April 1846 at the onset of the Mexican-American War, the narrative opens with a military encampment of the Army of Occupation along the Rio Grande opposite Matamoros. A commanding general, Colonel Thorpe, and Captain Field of dragoons discuss an urgent intelligence mission requiring a man of proven courage and Spanish fluency. They select Robert Fanchette, known as "the Prairie Guide"—a young frontiersman and scout of exceptional physical presence and capable disposition. The general commissions him to infiltrate Matamoros, obtain fortifications plans, identify weaknesses, and determine strategic assault points. Equipped with concealed weapons and disguised in civilian dress, the Guide departs the following day for his dangerous three-week mission, with General Taylor expecting his return before active hostilities commence toward Monterey.