On a superficial level, this story is about communication, or failure in communication, which here opens up a cluster of more specific issues. Among them: (a) a stranger's misinterpretation of the "insiders'" language and customs, with harmful results; (b) the basic human problem of weaknesses in personality, character, and ability to cope under extremely trying conditions when the odds of success are also unfavorable; (c) Crane's peculiar diction.

1. What elements or events in his own experience, actual or at second hand, might have led the Swede to believe he was going to be killed in Fort Romper, when he had chosen to go there himself?

2. What are your best reasons for believing or not believing that Johnnie Scully was cheating at cards?

3. Why do you think Pat Scully showed the disturbed Swede a picture of his deceased daughter?

4. Despite what Crane wrote about the town gambler's...