From the exhibition
Wild West Weekly No. 641
· January 29, 1915

Young Wild West and Arietta and the Hindoos
This 1915 dime novel serial by "An Old Scout" follows the American Wild West showman Young Wild West and his companions as they navigate the European theater of World War I. Caught in the conflict while exhibiting his traveling show, Wild maintains strict neutrality while seeking adventure around the Belgian siege of Liege. Having assisted the German Crown Prince in battle, he carries royal documents granting him access to German military operations.
The chapter depicts Wild's party—including his sweetheart Arietta, scout Cheyenne Charlie, Jim Dart, their partners, and the clever Chinese magician and cook Hop Wah—establishing camp near German artillery positions. When a cavalry captain attempts their arrest, Wild produces his imperial credentials, gaining the officer's embarrassed deference. Wild expresses his intention to cross into Allied territory to observe the fighting firsthand, demonstrating the characteristic confidence and willingness to navigate danger that define his character.
Public domain (pre-1929), restored and presented by comicbooks.com public-domain