The outcasts of poker flat text

Short story by Bret Harte

"The Outcasts of Poker Flat" (1869) is a short story written by author of the American West Bret Harte.^[1] An example of naturalism and local color of California during the first half of the nineteenth century, the story was first published in January 1869 in the magazine Overland Monthly.

It was one of two short stories which brought the author national attention.

Plot

The story takes place in a Californian community known as Poker Flat, near the town of La Porte.

The outcasts of poker flat text pdf

Following the loss of several thousand dollars and two horses, and the death of a notable resident, the town has formed a secret committee to rid itself of any "improper" people, hanging two and banishing others. On November 23, 1850, four such individuals are exiled from Poker Flat and warned not to return on pain of death.

The first of them is a professional poker player, John Oakhurst, who has won large amounts from those on the secret commit