Overland Telegraph

A quick-draw, reliable partner of Chito who keeps a level head under pressure. He’s brave, principled, and skeptical of schemes that would hurt friends. He drives the pursuit of truth through bold action and protective instincts toward Terry, Stella, and Paul.

Tim’s streetwise companion, witty and resourceful with a knack for reading people and places on the frontier. He keeps morale up while spotting danger and unraveling plot twists. His loyalty to Tim helps navigate the moral puzzles the story presents.

A spirited singer who is central to Paul’s hopes of marriage but becomes entangled in the sabotaged payroll plot. She shows resolve under pressure and acts to protect those she loves, even amid suspicion and danger.

Terry runs the camp and works for her father’s telegraph operation, showing grit and leadership in a harsh landscape. She quickly suspects foul play and enlists Tim and Chito to guard the payroll and uncover the truth.

A businessman whose fortunes are tied to the fort’s fate; he’s implicated in sabotage but also acts out of fear of losing Stella. His choices reveal moral ambiguity and a willingness to risk everything for love.

A saloon owner with a calculating streak who manipulates events to derail Paul and frame him. He allies with Bellew to steal the payroll, proving to be the main antagonist whose schemes spark much of the conflict.

Brad’s ruthless henchman who carries out the dirty work and drives the theft and pursuit. His loyalty to Brad makes him a dangerous antagonist who won’t hesitate to set fires or shoot when ordered.

Brad’s associate who participates in the payroll theft and falls under Chito and Tim’s detective gaze. He’s swift to follow orders but is not beyond getting caught in his own lies.

One of the masked saboteurs who pays the price during the fight at Brad’s place. His involvement heightens the sense of danger and the stakes of the sabotage plot.

Fort commander who orders the fort’s shutdown as the telegraph renders it obsolete. His decisions influence the broader conflict and the town’s response to the sabotage.

Terry’s father who ultimately dies from the injuries sustained in the attack and payroll hold-up, providing a personal motive for the protagonists’ fight against the saboteurs.