"The Free Rangers: A Story of the Early Days Along the Mississippi" by Joseph A. Altsheler is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story chronicles the adventures of a group of young frontiersmen as they navigate the challenges and dangers of the untamed wilderness along the Mississippi River. The main characters include Shif'less Sol, a resourceful and cunning woodsman, and his companions, Henry Ware, Tom Ross, and Paul Cotter, who each bring their unique skills to the group. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to Shif'less Sol, a young man deeply connected to the natural world and living in harmony with the wilderness. As he traverses the forest, he is actively preparing for an adventure linked to a larger purpose. Soon, he is joined by other young men who share a brave spirit and commitment to their mission, which is hinted to be a substantial undertaking against threats to their settlements. The opening sets the stage for a tale filled with exploration, camaraderie, and impending conflict, as the boys plan to confront both natural challenges and the potential violence posed by their enemies in the wilderness. (This is an automatically generated summary.)