The Phantom of the River

"The Phantom of the River" by Edward Sylvester Ellis is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. This book serves as a sequel to "Shod with Silence" and unfolds the adventures of American frontiersmen during a perilous time in the early settlers' lives. The prominent figures include the legendary pioneers Daniel Boone and Simon Kenton, who are depicted as they navigate the dangers posed by hostile Native American tribes while attempting to protect innocent settlers. The opening portion introduces a tense situation where Kenton and Boone are strategizing about the impending danger they perceive in the wilderness. They exchange information about a threat from the Shawanoes, particularly from a war chief known as The Panther. As they strategize, they learn that families they are escorting—comprising the Ashbridges and Altmans—face imminent peril from the Native Americans, and they must act quickly to prevent a disaster. Amidst this tension, the two pioneers set out to protect the settlers while dealing with the cunning of their adversaries—a setup that promises to unfold in thrilling and dangerous encounters as they race against time.