The Running Fight

"The Running Fight" by William Hamilton Osborne is a novel written in the early 20th century. It delves into the complexities of human emotions and social intrigue during a time characterized by economic turmoil. The story centers around Giles Ilingsworth, who, after losing his fortune in a financial collapse, confronts Leslie Wilkinson, the daughter of the powerful financier Peter V. Wilkinson, as he seeks retribution and justice in a world turned upside down. The opening of this tale introduces us to Ilingsworth as he prepares to confront Leslie at her family's luxurious home, driven by desperation and a sense of betrayal following the collapse of the Tri-State Trust Company. His intention is violent; he bears a weapon and is determined to confront the source of his financial ruin. The narrative captures his conflicting emotions as he unexpectedly meets Leslie, who reveals herself not as the conspirator he expected, but as her father's innocent daughter. The tension escalates as Ilingsworth grapples with his vengeful motives while Leslie's charm and vulnerability awaken his conscience, leading to a complicated entanglement of secrets and expectations that define their evolving relationship. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

William Hamilton Osborne was a lawyer and writer in the U.S. whose work includes stories, novels, and screenplays. Two novels he wrote were made into films and he wrote the screenplay for another. His work was published in various magazines and The Witch's Tales. The Red Mouse is a five act play that starred Valerie Bergere adapted by H.J.W. Dam from Osborne's novel. The New Jersey Historical Society has a collection of his papers donated by his wife.