THE YOUNG CIRCUS RIDER by Horatio Alger 

The Mystery of Robert Rudd 

ILLUSTRATED -   Circus rider Robert Rudd and his giant friend Anak have many adventures around the country before Robert discovers the secret of his heritage. In the Atlantic Series.  Orphaned at a young age, Robert has little memory of his past, and now is a star performer in the circus. At one performance, an old man, Cornelius Richmond, sees Robert and is astonished to see that Robert is the very image of his deceased son Julian. Mr. Richmond discusses this uncanny resemblance with his nephew, Hugo, who assures him that the resemblance is merely a coincidence.  Meanwhile, it is revealed that Hugo had years earlier paid a Mr. Fitzgerald to abduct Robert to be the sole heir of his uncle's estate. At their latest meeting, Fitzgerald confirms that Robert is the boy from the circus. Hugo again hires Fitzgerald to kill Robert. Mr. Fitzgerald pretends to employ Robert as his personal secretary; instead he attempts to murder him, but Robert escapes.  When Fitzgerald tries to collect his money, Hugo refuses to pay him. Fitzgerald’s anger serves as the catalyst that reverses the fortunes of all involved.

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