Poor and Proud; or, the Fortunes of Katy Redburn. A Story For Young Folks. by Oliver Optic [Pseud.]

The narrative centers on Katy's despair as she faces the grim reality of being delivered to the sinister Dr. Flynch. Master Simon Sneed, while alarmed at the potential consequences, struggles with his dignity and attempts to protest against the broker's actions. Tension escalates as the money-lender threatens to proceed with his menacing plan, pushing the characters into a corner filled with fear and desperation. The story explores themes of power dynamics, moral dilemmas, and the fight for redemption amidst looming threats.