When everybody knew: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition
When everybody knew: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.

When everybody knew is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Spears, Raymond S. (Raymond Smiley) (1876–1950).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"When Everybody Knew" by Raymond S. Spears is a short story published in Adventure magazine during the late 1920s. This piece is a work of fiction that captures the gritty atmosphere of a frontier town, focusing on themes of intimidation, masculinity, and social hierarchy. The narrative revolves around the dynamics of power among the town's inhabitants, especially under the looming presence of the villainous character, Rearing Bill. The story introduces Rearing Bill, a menacing figure known for his brute strength and propensity for violence. His arrival in the Many Moons Barroom sets a chaotic tone, as he exhibits reckless behavior fueled by alcohol, drawing fear and fascination from onlookers. Tensions escalate when he begins to terrorize a hapless man, Odd Jobbing Det, until Robert Benson, known as Patient Bob, intervenes boldly. With an unexpected display of courage, Benson effortlessly disarms Bill, revealing his own prowess and surprising everyone. This act of bravery not only changes the dynamics of the conflict but also establishes Benson's reputation in the town. The tale culminates in a juxtaposition of strength and vulnerability, underscoring the complexities of power within a rugged society.
Book and edition facts
- Title: When everybody knew
- Author credits: Spears, Raymond S. (Raymond Smiley) (1876–1950)
- Catalogue language: English
Catalogue subjects
- American fiction -- 20th century
- Short stories
- Western stories
Gutenberg collections
- Category: Adventure
- Category: Short Stories
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View the complete Gutenberg catalogue record. Project Gutenberg identifies this edition as public domain in the United States; that designation does not establish its copyright status in every country.
Source notes
Catalogue metadata is public domain and is supplied through Gutendex, which imports Gutenberg's machine-readable catalogue. The automated synopsis is source-supplied, not an independently verified review. Author dates above describe the credited people; no ebook release date is presented as the book's original publication date.


