Shorty McCabe

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

22249

Title

Shorty McCabe

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A humorous, fast-paced tale of boxer Shorty McCabe, who retires to train fighters and dabble in odd jobs before being swept up in high-society antics. With a lively narrator and a cast of eccentric characters, this novel blends boxing grit with New York social satire, offering a charming, old-fashioned adventure filled with wit, romance, and unexpected twists.

Summary up to 500 words

In Sewell Ford's *Shorty McCabe*, the retired boxer Shorty McCabe navigates the comedic and chaotic landscape of early 20th-century New York City. Following a loss on a horse race bet, Shorty teams up with the flamboyant Leonidas Dodge to sell a dubious polish. Their efforts lead them to a bachelor club, where they must rescue Homer Fales, a nervous invalid overwhelmed by a mob of would-be caretakers. Dodge's charismatic handling of the situation clears the room, allowing Shorty to bond with the grateful but frail Fales. The narrative takes a romantic turn when Shorty reconnects with Sadie Sullivan, a wealthy yet socially isolated widow whose husband died of heart failure. Despite the snobbery of her peers and the ridicule she faces for her inability to navigate high society, Shorty recognizes her true worth. He stands by her as she struggles with loneliness, even after her husband's friends dismiss her. Their friendship blossoms into romance, culminating in an impromptu wedding aboard Shorty's newly purchased steam yacht, *The Toreador*. The ceremony takes place under the moonlight, followed by a jubilant celebration that attracts the attention of the entire New York Harbor, including the U.S. Navy. Narrated in a distinct, colloquial voice, the story blends boxing ring bravado with the absurdities of high society. The tone is affectionate yet satirical, highlighting themes of loyalty, the contrast between material wealth and genuine happiness, and the enduring value of old friendships. Through Shorty's journey, Ford illustrates that true worth is found in character and connection rather than social status, ultimately celebrating the triumph of the heart over the haughty conventions of the city.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

Download URL

https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/22249.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg22249.epub

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Categories

• Fiction
• Humor