Meet Cap’n Kidd

Introduction

“Meet Cap’n Kidd” continues the humorous and rugged adventures of Breckinridge Elkins, a character of immense strength and simple-minded integrity. This chapter narrates Elkins’ quest to prove his worth by capturing and taming the most ferocious horse in the West, known as Cap’n Kidd. The story is rich in action, showcasing Elkins’ physical prowess and his straightforward approach to life’s challenges.

This short story was altered slightly to become Chapter 3 of A Gent From Bear Creek novel. First published in The Summit Country Journal. Stories, 1968.

“Meet Cap’n Kidd” is a tale of adventure, determination, and the quest for respect. It humorously explores themes of masculinity, competition, and the lengths to which one will go to prove oneself. Through it all, Elkins remains an endearing character, whose heart is as big as his muscles, and whose adventures continue to entertain with their blend of action, humor, and Western lore.

The story

The tale begins with Elkins recovering from his previous exploits, determined not to return home in disgrace. Upon encountering a plateau teeming with wildlife fleeing from something, Elkins discovers the cause of the commotion: a monstrous pinto stallion named Cap’n Kidd. The horse’s reputation for being untamable and deadly sparks Elkins’ determination to capture and ride him, not just for personal glory but also to prove his detractors wrong, particularly Wild Bill Donovan and his men, who also seek the horse.

Elkins’ method of capturing Cap’n Kidd involves using his brute strength to build a stone wall and trap the horse in a natural corral. The ensuing struggle between man and beast is epic, with Elkins using every bit of his wit and brawn to subdue Cap’n Kidd. The narrative is filled with vivid descriptions of the chaotic battle that ensues, highlighting Elkins’ tenacity and Cap’n Kidd’s ferocity.

The turning point comes when Elkins, through a combination of luck and sheer force, manages to saddle and ride Cap’n Kidd, albeit enduring a brutal beating in the process. This victory is short-lived, however, as Donovan and his men arrive, claiming rights to Cap’n Kidd. Through a rigged card game, Elkins is tricked into losing his claim on the horse. Yet, in a twist of fate, Elkins turns the tables on Donovan, using his physical advantage to win back not only Cap’n Kidd but also Donovan’s clothes and gear.

In the end, Elkins rides back to Bear Creek, triumphant and dressed in his new finery, only to encounter Glory McGraw, his love interest. The story closes with a bittersweet moment between them, illustrating the complexities of Elkins’ character—a man capable of extraordinary feats yet still navigating the intricacies of human relationships.

Characters

  • Breckinridge Elkins: The protagonist, whose physical strength and determination drive the story.
  • Cap’n Kidd: The wild and nearly mythical pinto stallion that Elkins sets out to capture.
  • Wild Bill Donovan: The antagonist, a cowboy with designs on capturing Cap’n Kidd for himself.
  • Glory McGraw: Elkins’ love interest, whose approval he seeks through his adventures.
  • Alexander: Elkins’ faithful but overwhelmed mule, providing comic relief.
  • Donovan’s Men: A group of cowboys aiding Donovan in his quest to capture Cap’n Kidd.

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