Parrot & Co.

"Parrot & Co." by Harold MacGrath is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the lives of two central characters, Warrington, an American with a mysterious past, and his loyal Eurasian servant James Hooghly, as they navigate the dusty landscapes of Burma and their own tumultuous histories. The novel hints at themes of resilience, friendship, and self-discovery as Warrington travels with a parrot, which symbolizes both companionship and the struggles he faces. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to the desolate region along the Irrawaddy River in Burma, where Warrington and James are traveling. As they make their way to Rangoon, we learn about Warrington's past and his relationship with the parrot he has kept for six years, which has become a significant part of his life. Despite his rough exterior and the burdens he carries, Warrington displays a peculiar bond with the parrot, signifying his underlying desire for connection and purpose. The narrative builds tension by hinting at Warrington's secrets and the potential for romance with a character named Elsa, further setting up an intricate web of interactions and conflicts that will unfold throughout the story.

Parrot & Co., by Harold MacGrath. Republished by OpenStories from Project Gutenberg eBook #18443.