"Once Upon A Time" by Richard Harding Davis is a work of fiction written in the early 20th century. The narrative unfolds through a series of interconnected stories, with themes likely revolving around love, ambition, and societal introspection. The opening portion introduces Everett, a muckraking journalist who embarks on a journey to the Congo, driven by a desire to expose corruption and advocate for justice, while also providing insight into his personal relationships and ideological struggles. The beginning of the novel focuses on Everett as he prepares for his adventure to the Congo, detailing his motivations and past experiences in journalism. We learn about his affluent background, his engagement to Florence Carey, and his idealistic ambitions to reform the oppressive systems he believes exist in the Congo. As he embarks on his journey aboard a steamer brimming with intrigue, Everett's encounters with various passengers hint at the complexities and perils he will face. Initial conversations reveal skepticism surrounding his mission, setting the tone for a story rich with themes of moral conflict and the harsh realities of colonial exploitation. (This is an automatically generated summary.)