Ruth Fielding In the Saddle. College Girls' Adventure in the Wild West

"Ruth Fielding In the Saddle" by Alice B. Emerson follows the adventurous journey of Ruth Fielding and her friends as they embark on a summer trip to the Hualapai Range in Arizona. The story begins with Ruth and her friends, Helen Cameron and Jennie Stone, discussing their plans for the summer. Ruth has been invited by Mr. Hammond, a film producer, to write a scenario for a new movie set in an abandoned mining camp in Arizona.
Excited by the opportunity, Ruth decides to invite her friends to join her on this adventure. The group, which includes several other college girls and a chaperone, Miss Cullam, plans to meet in New York before heading west. As they travel by train, they encounter a series of mysterious events, including the presence of Edith Phelps, a sophomore from their college, who seems to be following them. The train journey is interrupted by a fire on a bridge, causing a delay and forcing the group to take an alternate route.
Despite these challenges, the girls remain enthusiastic about their upcoming adventure. Throughout the journey, Ruth's adaptability and problem-solving skills are highlighted, as she navigates the complexities of organizing the trip and dealing with unexpected obstacles. The story emphasizes themes of friendship, independence, and the excitement of exploring new frontiers. As the girls prepare for their horseback ride into the mountains, they anticipate the challenges and thrills that await them in the land of gold.