Beadle's New Dime Novels: Ruth Harland

RUTH HARLAND This dime novel by C. Dunning Clark (published by Beadle and Adams, 1887) opens with historical fiction set in colonial New England. Chapter One depicts a diplomatic confrontation between English colonial authorities—including Governor Josiah Winslow and Captain John Mason—and Pequod chiefs led by Mennawan, brother of head sachem Sassacus. The narrative addresses murders of English traders (Captains Stone and Norton) and a settler family (the Weeks) attributed to young Pequod warriors. Mennawan delivers a lengthy diplomatic response, articulating grievances about English encroachment on hunting grounds and forest clearing, while ultimately pledging tribal cooperation. English officials present articles of agreement demanding the Pequods deliver accused murderers, cede Connecticut lands, and guarantee trader safety. The chiefs consent, and Mennawan proposes smoking peace with the rival Narragansett chief Miantonomah, who appears as the chapter concludes.