Make or Break; or, The Rich Man's Daughter

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

26695

Title

Make or Break; or, The Rich Man's Daughter

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set in 19th-century Boston, this juvenile adventure follows the fortunes of Leo Maggimore, a talented machinist, and his foster-father André, a barber who secretly adopted a wealthy orphan. The story explores themes of class, inheritance, and moral integrity as the characters navigate legal battles, business challenges, and personal growth, offering an uplifting tale of perseverance and family.

Summary up to 500 words

In Oliver Optic's *Make or Break; or, The Rich Man's Daughter*, the narrative unfolds within Boston's bustling commercial district, centering on the lives of André Maggimore, a humble barber, and his adopted son, Leo, a brilliant young inventor. Their story intersects with the wealthy Wittleworth family and the stern banker, Mr. Checkynshaw, who claims a block of stores and ten years of income belong to his missing daughter, Marguerite. The plot ignites when Checkynshaw's clerk, Fitzherbert Wittleworth, publicly defies his employer in a barber shop, leading to a confrontation that exposes the family's financial desperation. Fitz, believing his grandfather's will grants him rights to the property, attempts to sue Checkynshaw, only to be thwarted by the banker's legal maneuvering and the apparent death of Marguerite. The story explores themes of integrity versus greed, as Checkynshaw's harsh demeanor masks a complex history involving his daughter's fate in France. While the Wittleworths face poverty and social ridicule, André's moral rectitude and Leo's inventive genius provide a counter-narrative of resilience. Leo's mechanical innovations eventually secure financial independence for his foster family, proving that honest labor and ingenuity triumph over mere wealth. As the legal drama progresses, evidence regarding Marguerite's survival emerges, revealing that the banker's claim was based on a misunderstanding of her identity and location. The novel concludes with a harmonious resolution: Marguerite is reunited with her family, marries a kind lawyer, and assumes guardianship of her inheritance. André, vindicated in his integrity, becomes a beloved grandfather to the next generation. The Wittleworth and Checkynshaw families reconcile, establishing a multi-generational household defined by peace and mutual respect. Through its focus on youth, education, and ethical conduct, the book serves as both entertainment and moral instruction, illustrating that true success lies in perseverance and honesty rather than the accumulation of riches.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/26695.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg26695.epub

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Categories

• Fiction
• Juvenile Fiction