Marilyn #24 December 1960

In "The Happy Hostage," Claire’s quick thinking saves a young native boy’s life with artificial respiration, setting off a chain of events that leads her to a hidden truth. As she’s escorted home under Rod’s orders, the boy’s father quietly guides her to Rod’s location—just as she confronts him, their fragile moment is cut short by the sudden arrival of Franks’ men. Written by J. Stamper and illustrated by Jack Hardee, this tense, character-driven story unfolds with quiet urgency, grounded in loyalty and danger. The cover by Jack Hardee captures the moment’s suspense perfectly.