The Secret Shot; Or, The Rivals Of Misty Mount

This publication, *American Tales*, issue containing "The Secret Shot; or, The Rivals of Misty Mount" by Herrick Johnstone (1864), is a historical romance set during the American Revolution. The narrative establishes a mountain valley settlement in western North Carolina founded in 1750 by Godfrey Gwin, a grief-stricken plantation owner fleeing personal tragedy. Gwin builds a prosperous manor called Misty Mount and attracts neighboring gentry. The Gleason family from Virginia settles nearby—including patriarch Jacob, whose political loyalism to the Crown conflicts with Gwin's patriot sympathies. Heartstead Gleason harbors unrequited love for Gwin's daughter Ida, while his father harbors avaricious hopes that Heartstead might marry her and consolidate their estates. When Revolutionary War erupts around 1780, the Gleasons side with the British as Tories, while Gwin and his son Walter support the patriotic cause. The narrative frames increasing conflict between families divided by loyalty, with romantic and financial interests entangled beneath political antagonisms.