Happy Days: A Paper for Young Americans

This issue of *Happy Days* (April 8, 1897) features "Two American Boys' Trip Around the World on Bicycles" by Albert J. Booth, a serialized adventure narrative. The story follows Jack Daring and his orphaned companion Ned Norton, both seventeen, who set out from New York to circumnavigate the globe by bicycle in six months. Jack makes the boast after being taunted by rival Dick Carson; his wealthy father and Ned's benefactor Mr. Daring fund the expedition, which will take them across America to San Francisco, then by steamer through China and Asia before returning via Europe. The opening chapters depict their departure from Tarrytown and an encounter with drunken tramps near Poughkeepsie who attempt to extort money and destroy the boys' bicycles. The narrative combines coming-of-age themes with action sequences and globe-trotting adventure.