On With Torchy

In Short

On With Torchy is a humorous and romantic novel set in early 20th-century New York, following the adventures of Torchy, a clever and resourceful office boy working for the Corrugated Trust. The story is a series of episodic tales filled with wit, romance, and social commentary, as Torchy navigates his professional duties, personal relationships, and various schemes with charm and ingenuity. The novel has endured as a lighthearted and entertaining portrayal of life in the bustling city, capturing the spirit of the era with its lively characters and engaging narratives.

The Story

The novel opens with Torchy, the office boy, reflecting on his position at the Corrugated Trust and his interactions with Mr. Quinn, a former colleague. Torchy's quick wit and resourcefulness are immediately on display as he handles various tasks and challenges with ease. The story then shifts to a series of vignettes, each highlighting Torchy's involvement in different situations, from solving office mysteries to assisting his colleagues and friends.

One of the central plotlines involves Torchy's efforts to help his friend Ira Higgins, who is visiting the office under mysterious circumstances. Torchy uses his charm and cunning to gather information and assist Ira, demonstrating his loyalty and problem-solving skills. Another significant storyline revolves around Torchy's interactions with the Wedmore family, particularly Doreen and her brother Max. Torchy becomes entangled in their personal dramas, offering support and advice while navigating his own feelings for Doreen.

The novel also explores Torchy's relationships with other characters, such as Gladys, a young woman he meets during a country drive, and Peggy, a charming child who takes a liking to him. These interactions add depth to Torchy's character, showcasing his kindness, humor, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

Throughout the story, Torchy's adventures are interspersed with moments of humor, romance, and social commentary. He attends parties, solves minor crises, and offers witty observations on the world around him. The novel culminates in a series of events that bring together various characters and plotlines, resolving conflicts and leaving Torchy in a position of newfound respect and admiration.

How It Unfolds

Torchy's Reflections: The novel begins with Torchy contemplating his role at the Corrugated Trust and his interactions with Mr. Quinn, setting the tone for his witty and resourceful character.

Office Intrigue: Torchy becomes involved in solving a mystery involving flowers left on Mr. Ellins' desk, showcasing his detective skills and office politics.

Assisting Ira Higgins: Torchy helps Ira, a visiting friend, navigate the office and gather information, demonstrating his loyalty and cunning.

The Wedmore Family: Torchy becomes entangled in the personal dramas of the Wedmore family, particularly Doreen and Max, offering support and advice while navigating his own feelings.

Country Drive with Gladys: Torchy accompanies Gladys on a country drive, engaging in lighthearted conversation and showcasing his charm and humor.

Peggy's Admiration: Torchy forms a bond with Peggy, a young girl who admires him, adding a touch of innocence and warmth to the story.

Social Gatherings: Torchy attends various social events, including parties and gatherings, where he interacts with a diverse cast of characters and offers witty observations.

Resolving Conflicts: The novel culminates in a series of events that bring together various characters and plotlines, resolving conflicts and leaving Torchy in a position of respect and admiration.

The People

Torchy: The protagonist, Torchy, is a clever, resourceful, and charming office boy working for the Corrugated Trust. He navigates his professional duties and personal relationships with wit and ingenuity, always ready to help a friend or solve a problem. Torchy's character is defined by his quick thinking, loyalty, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life. By the end of the novel, he has earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues and friends, solidifying his position as a beloved and essential member of the office.

Ira Higgins: Ira is a friend of Torchy's who visits the office under mysterious circumstances. Torchy assists him in gathering information and navigating the office politics, demonstrating his loyalty and problem-solving skills. Ira's presence adds an element of intrigue to the story, as Torchy works to uncover the reasons behind his visit.

Doreen Wedmore: Doreen is a member of the Wedmore family, with whom Torchy becomes entangled in personal dramas. She is a central figure in Torchy's romantic interests, and their relationship adds a layer of emotional depth to the story. Doreen's character is portrayed as kind and compassionate, and her interactions with Torchy highlight his ability to form meaningful connections.

Max Wedmore: Max is Doreen's brother and a source of both support and conflict for Torchy. Their relationship is marked by a mix of camaraderie and rivalry, as they navigate their respective roles in the Wedmore family and the office. Max's character adds a dynamic element to the story, as he and Torchy work together and occasionally compete for Doreen's attention.

Gladys: Gladys is a young woman Torchy meets during a country drive. Their interaction is lighthearted and charming, showcasing Torchy's ability to connect with people and his sense of humor. Gladys's character adds a touch of romance and innocence to the story, as she and Torchy engage in witty banter and enjoy each other's company.

Peggy: Peggy is a young girl who takes a liking to Torchy, admiring his charm and wit. Their relationship is marked by a sense of warmth and innocence, as Peggy looks up to Torchy and he, in turn, shows her kindness and affection. Peggy's character adds a layer of heartwarming interaction to the story, highlighting Torchy's ability to form bonds with people of all ages.

In Its Own Voice

"Say, what's next to knowin' when you're well off? Why, thinkin' you are."

This opening line sets the tone for Torchy's character, showcasing his witty and reflective nature as he contemplates his position and happiness.

"I grins good-natured at his old josh, just as I used to about twice a week regular, and admits that I am."

Here, Torchy's good-natured response to Mr. Quinn's teasing reveals his easygoing personality and his ability to take things in stride.

"Oh, you deliciously funny man!" gasps Pansy, tappin' him playful on the shoulder.

This line highlights Torchy's charm and humor, as he effortlessly entertains those around him with his witty remarks and engaging personality.

What It's Really About

On With Torchy is a novel that explores the themes of wit, resourcefulness, and human connection in the context of early 20th-century New York. It delves into the life of an office boy who navigates the complexities of work, friendship, and romance with charm and ingenuity. The novel highlights the importance of loyalty, kindness, and the ability to adapt to various situations, as Torchy becomes a central figure in the lives of those around him. Through Torchy's adventures, the book offers a lighthearted and entertaining portrayal of city life, capturing the spirit of the era with its lively characters and engaging narratives. Ultimately, On With Torchy is a celebration of the power of wit, friendship, and the joy of living life to the fullest.

Why Read It Today

On With Torchy is a delightful read for those who enjoy humorous and romantic stories set in a bygone era. The novel's witty dialogue, engaging characters, and lively narratives make it a charming and entertaining escape. Readers who appreciate historical fiction will find the portrayal of early 20th-century New York both accurate and captivating, with its detailed descriptions of office life, social gatherings, and the city's vibrant atmosphere.

The book's protagonist, Torchy, is a relatable and endearing character whose resourcefulness and charm make him a joy to follow. His interactions with a diverse cast of characters, from colleagues to friends and romantic interests, add depth and variety to the story. The novel's episodic structure allows readers to dip in and out of Torchy's adventures, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy lighthearted and engaging reads.

However, readers should be prepared for some period-specific language and attitudes that may feel dated or unfamiliar by today's standards. The novel's portrayal of gender roles and social norms reflects the era in which it was written, and some readers may find certain aspects of the story less progressive than contemporary works. Despite these considerations, On With Torchy remains a charming and entertaining novel that offers a glimpse into a fascinating period of history, making it a worthwhile read for fans of historical fiction and romantic comedy.